Preparing To Battle | Maximilian Kilman

Taking us from the start of the day in the hotel, to lining up in the Molineux tunnel is Maximilian Kilman, discussing his typical matchday routine. 

In the hotel pre-match

“I like to relax as much as possible and not think about the game, then if we have our meeting, that’s when I start focusing on the task. I’ll watch something on Netflix or listen to music, I won’t sleep, I can’t sleep during the day.”

Pre-match meal

“We have chicken and pesto paninis, sometimes a bit of pasta, nothing too filling. Just stuff to get my energy up.”

The coach journey in

“Last season, I sat with John and ‘Coads’ and Saiss is just on a table across. We just speak a little bit on the bus before the game, but the night before, we talk a lot. If we take the train, we will play a card game or just chat.”

Pre-match emotions

“I’ve become a lot calmer. The first few games I played for Wolves, I was quite nervous, but the more I’ve played, the more comfortable I’ve got. Of course, you’re always a bit nervous and I think nerves are good, but I’m not too pumped up, only when the whistle blows.”

Meeting the opposition

“I’ll be honest, I don’t know many other players in the Premier League. We’ve played against old teammates like Doherty, Cavaleiro, Costa, and you say hi to them, but I don’t speak too much. I’ll speak to my own teammates more.”

In the dressing room

“I’m usually next to ‘Coads’ and the other defenders. We’ll speak about the game, especially Conor, he likes to speak to everyone, which shows what a good leader he is, but we’ll talk about the formation, how many strikers there are, and how we’re going to adapt.”

Pre-match music

“I like listening to upbeat music like hip-hop. It gets you a bit more motivated. I’m listening to that, but on the outside I’m calm, like I’m listening to sleeping music.”

Rituals before the game

“I don’t do anything in particular, nothing like right boot first or anything. When I get to the ground, I like to sit down, relax, read the programme and chat to the lads.”

The teams are in

“We get sent clips of players before the game. Obviously, I watch all the Premier League games, so I know most of the players, but when I see the formation go up, I just like to remind myself what foot the players up against me use and what they’re strong at.”

In the tunnel

“I just like to stay as calm as possible and know I’m going to enjoy the game, playing in front of the crowd. I want to express myself and make sure I do the best to help the team, that’s it.”