Veratschnig: “The perfect place for me to develop”

“Nikolas Veratschnig is an extremely dynamic wide player, and his pace will be a great addition to our squad. His performances in Austria have made him a sought-after player and we see lots of potential in him. We’re pleased that he’s chosen to move to Mainz 05,” said Christian Heidel after completing the signing of the Austria U21 international at the end of June. The right-back, who has joined FSV from Wolfsberger AC, trained for the first time with his new teammates on Monday at Bruchweg and is still getting to know his new surroundings. “The team has made a great impression on me,” he said to the media after training on Wednesday afternoon. “I’ve been given a really warm welcome and everyone is happy to help me.”

Motivation from a former Bundesliga coach

Former Bundesliga coach Robin Dutt predicted some time ago that Veratschnig would play in Germany’s top flight at one stage. The 59-year-old coach, who had spells in charge of SC Freiburg, Bayer Leverkusen, Werder Bremen and VfL Bochum, was Wolfsberger AC boss between 2021 and 2023. Dutt promoted Veratschnig to the first team and developed him on the right flank, revealed FSV’s new signing. “He said that I have the potential to play in the Bundesliga and that clubs would definitely get in contact with me. That really pushed me and I did everything I could to achieve it. I’m now here a year later.”

Before his move to Mainz was complete, Nikolas Veratschnig got the chance to visit the city. “I took a look at everything, the stadium, the training ground etc. I really liked it all. I believe here is the best place for me to develop.” He doesn’t think the move to the Bundesliga will be too big of a jump for him, but knows he will have to give his all to succeed. “I was really impressed by the coach and then decided to join the club.”

Constantly improving the defensive side of his game

Veratschnig sees himself as more of an attacker, though he is constantly working on improving the defensive side of his game. Depending on the coach’s tactics, he played either at right-back in a back-four or on the right side of a back-three in Austria. He stated that he prefers playing in a back-three because that allows him to attack more. “I was originally an attacker, but I’ve definitely developed my defensive qualities in the last two years.” Veratschnig believes that the challenge is finding the right moment to attack, and not to be too hectic and impatient. The Austrian is confident that Mainz’s style of play could suit him: “I’ve spoken with the coaching team. I’m in their plans and they need my pace for the right wing. Counter-attacks are something I’m good at. I hope I can help the club in this way.” Veratschnig has always been quick, even if his father was apparently not very rapid as an amateur centre-back.

Veratschnig would like to continue the tradition of Austrians being successful at FSV. “I’m looking forward to everything – the atmosphere, the fans, the German stadiums, the style of play in the Bundesliga.” The new signing is also confident: “I want to show what I’m capable of here and I’m aware of how strong the squad is. It’s something I obviously know, but there is competition for places at every club, that’s just how it is. I think that if I always give my best I’ll get my chance. I’m certain of that and will give 100%.”

Aiming to play for Austria’s senior side

One of the young Austrian’s big targets is to play for his nation’s senior side. “I have played for the U21s and now want to make the step up.”  Last autumn, Veratschnig was invited to a training camp for young players by Ralf Rangnick.  Youngsters from the whole of Austria got to work with the German coach of Austria’s senior team. “I was there for a week and I thought he’s a really cool coach,” revealed Veratschnig. The 21-year-old doesn’t feel like he’s had that many big moments in his career to date, only naming every Bundesliga game in Austria, particularly against Salzburg or Graz. “Those games were always special. The U19 European Championship was also a highlight,” he added. Now it’s time for Nikolas Veratschnig to establish himself in Mainz and to experience lots of big moments in Germany’s premier division.