Malik Tillman’s honest and open interview in the German media has provided an excellent insight to the current thinking of the talented attacker.
Having arrived at Ibrox in August, it was clear from early on that the US international was a very talented player but it was also evident that he was still developing. Of course, some might say. The Bayern Munich loanee is currently in his first full season as a top team player, with only a few, breakthrough appearances for the Bavarian giants providing experience beyond the second string squad that he was accustomed to.
In his interview with Kicker, he disclosed what Julian Nagelsmann advised him, what he has been learning most in Scotland to aid his game and why he feels he is benefiting more under Michael Beale than previously with Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Early showings in Europe against the likes of Union Saint-Gilloise and then PSV Eindhoven provided highs but lows weren’t far away with an early struggle against Celtic in September as Rangers took a sore one at Parkhead. The need to fight and compete was hammered home that day, something that isn’t lost on the 20-year old:
“With the Scottish hardness, I can bring another component into my game that I didn’t know before.”
Tillman has contributed plenty to the Rangers cause so far this season but there is even more to come, especially with trophies to play for. He knows the coaches at Bayern will continue to monitor him and when asked what Nagelsmann said he should improve on prior to his Scottish adventure, he stated:
“It went towards mentality. I was often given the example of Joshua Kimmich, that I can learn a lesson there. That I should always be one hundred percent on the pitch and attentive. And the balls are challenging because playing with the ball is one of my strengths. And the defense could be a bit better for an offensive player.”
Preparation
It was also noted by the attacker, that he feels Beale is a better fit for his game rather than the more rigid ways of Gio. In comparison, he commented regarding the Dutchman’s departure and the influence of the Champions League struggles under his leadership:
“Yes, but we haven’t always reached our standard in the league either. I don’t think the sporting directors liked the way we played football. That was too defensive, goals are expected from us.”
“Among other things, he (Beale) allows more offensive football to be played. I would say that he and his assistants prepare us more for opponents. We have a better sense of how we go into a game.”
The player is going from strength to strength, as much as Beale is still needing to find a way for his team to achieve consistency. Moving forward into next season, the objective of improving the side further will be that wee bit easier if Malik Tillman is able to be a permanent acquisition.