WERDER.DE: Who exactly is the little girl we often see in your Instagram stories? Do you think about the fact that she’s appearing in front of an audience of 500,000 followers?
Serge Gnabry: “That’s my little cousin (laughs). I definitely think about it, or else I wouldn’t have posted it. Family is a part of my life and with these little videos I can cherish those moments. I took her to school, that’s what it was about.”
WERDER.DE: Have you found that you’ve given up parts of your private life because of your fame?
Serge Gnabry: “Everyone has a private life. Of course, I don’t share everything I do with the internet. I happily share times when I’m with people I like, but that doesn’t mean I’ve given up my private life. I decide what I disclose.”
WERDER.DE: What do you think about stories that run in the media, for example those of your girlfriend and her brother, who plays for Schalke?
Serge Gnabry: “There’s no harm in that. She’s just my girlfriend. It’s a find that the media are happy with I’m sure, but it hasn’t changed anything.”
WERDER.DE: What has your career as a professional footballer changed for your family?
Serge Gnabry: “The appreciation around where I come from has changed - no question. Now my parents and family know so many more people.”
WERDER.DE: And within your family?
Serge Gnabry: “Not much. When I’m free I enjoy going to see my family and am often with them. We still always do the things we like to do. They treat me like they did before, and vice-versa. I don’t think you should think about it too much.”
WERDER.DE: As a footballer, and as a public figure, you’re a role-model for many children. Is that something you think about at all?
Serge Gnabry: “It is, I must say, especially when you see just how many children come to you, and how they’re subconsciously influenced by how your behaviour. Regardless of whether it’s on the pitch or on the street, you have to be aware of how you carry yourself and not do anything stupid.”
WERDER.DE: What exactly do you mean by this?
Serge Gnabry: “On the pitch I’m talking about unnecessary cards or poor sportsmanship, but I’m also inherently not the type to lose control over my emotions. Perhaps that’s a bigger danger for others. Through playing football you can afford more off the pitch, and of course I don’t begrudge that, but it’s not something I would display publically. There are people who find like to show off expensive brands...”