The flying Dutchman, a nightmare to any defense

Dutch forward Arjen Robben is at the height of his game and would be a nightmare for any team at the World Cup. At the peak of his career, he is a model winger for anyone who wants to learn how to play soccer.
The 30-year-old has been one of the players of the tournament in Brazil, scoring three goals and terrorizing defenses with his quick, weaving runs and close control.
Robben speaks in an exclusive interview to Arab News in Brazil before the Netherlands quarterfinal match against Costa Rica.

Whether you like it or not, your compatriots will consider you the ‘inside man’ if the Netherlands play Germany. What info can you help the coach with?
There are no secrets in international football and I wouldn’t call myself a spy, but I do think it’s useful that I know so many of the Germany squad. I play with them in training every day with Bayern, so hopefully know what their strengths and weaknesses are. Of course that goes both ways.
Manuel Neuer is a fantastic goalkeeper, you don’t get past him easily. And I feel the benefit of Toni Kroos and Bastian Schweinsteiger too, their midfield dominance allows me to attack so regularly.

Would you like to go toe-to-toe with Philip Lahm?
I know Philip can play on either flank at full back so there is a chance I could be up against him if our nations meet. It’s hard to say how the meeting would go. If I feel good and fit I think I can cause any player problems, but Philip is one of the best defenders in the world and has been for years.

You have a Spanish coach and teammates at Bayern. Can your familiarity with Javi Martinez help you here?
I have got to know Javi Martinez very well and a.m. glad he is on my team when we play club football. His is energetic and tenacious and such a presence in the center of the pitch or at center-back. I also met Xavi, Jordi Alba and Cristian Tello in the Champions League when Bayern met Barcelona in 2013, on our way to winning it. They are all excellent players who hurt you in different way. Xavi in particular is an example and reference point to all midfielders. His distribution, protection of the ball and temperament are as good as it gets.

You’ve played in many different countries. How has that helped you in your career?
I have learned something from every team and league I have played in. In the Netherlands we love tactics but also enjoy positive bold football. That’s how I grew up loving to attack at every opportunity and express myself. When I went to England with Chelsea I discovered the physical side of the game, which helped me toughen up and look after myself.
The pressure that comes with playing for Real Madrid in La Liga has helped me cope with big games and intense scrutiny. Being able to get on with the matches and not become intimidated or distracted by outside factors is a good skill. And the German attitude of never giving up and working very professionally has improved me further. I have realized that details and preparation are crucial. The Bundesliga is also physically demanding so you have to be fit and live like an athlete to compete.

Will you use your right foot to surprise us one day?
I think my left foot is good enough, don’t you? When the situation demands it I use my right, but the left has helped me out in so many big games, I can’t abandon it. My right foot certainly isn’t just for standing on, but when there is serious work to be done, the left rarely lets me down.

Playing at your level, Champions League, Bundesliga and international tournaments, must be stressful. What do you do to relax?
I love playing tennis. I can’t play as much as I’d like because I don’t want to tire myself or pick up any injuries which would affect my football. But it’s one of my favorite hobbies. If I need to let off steam at the World Cup I might find a tennis court and have a couple of rallies. Who knows, the tennis courts in Brazil are probably very different to the ones I’m used to in Germany and the Netherlands, I could really develop my game, and become a master of all surfaces!