Hamburg forward Philip Otele has revealed the advice he received from his coaches ahead of his Bundesliga debut against Heidenheim on Saturday.

The Nigerian striker, who joined Hamburg on loan from Basel during the winter transfer window, played 68 minutes as the club secured a 2-0 victory, their first league win of the year. 

Otele was Hamburg’s standout attacking player, recording three shots on goal, the most for his side, and providing the assist for Ransford Königsdörffer’s opening goal deep into first-half added time.

Reflecting on the guidance he received from manager Merlin Polzin and his coaching team, Otele told Mopo: "I've always wanted to play in the Bundesliga. The coaches told me what to do. I should stay connected, push forward, and show my strengths. The most important message was that I should enjoy myself."

The 26-year-old also revealed that he did his homework before joining Hamburg, consulting with fellow players and watching videos of the club and its fans. 

"I spoke with many players. They all had only positive things to say.

"I watched a few YouTube videos of the team. And videos of the fans. That's when I thought: Okay, this seems like a really great club."

Otele, who was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the AFCON but missed the final list, will now aim to maintain his form as he continues his Bundesliga journey with Hamburg.

Adeyemi Adewale