Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen says hearing the Champions League anthem before games gives him goosebumps.
The 23-year-old German is yet to start a La Liga game for the Catalans since his move from Borussia Monchengladbach last summer, yet has been given the nod by boss Luis Enrique for the European games.
“It’s a great feeling to play in the Champions League because you always associate something with the anthem,” he told UEFA.com.
“For us players it’s a great feeling. It’s something special. When the anthem sounds I know it’s time for the Champions League and it gives me goosebumps.
“I believe every player, fan and Coach wants this trophy. It’s unbelievable and is one of the greatest achievements you can have in football because that’s what we fight for every day.”
The 23-year-old says Barcelona’s rhythm and confidence has improved over the course of the season.
“We’ve made progress since the beginning of the campaign. We had a difficult start then found some sort of consistency and I think we’ve gradually improved, also by performing in the Champions League.
“We’re in a good position in La Liga and in the Copa del Rey final, so it couldn’t get much better than this.
“It would be nice to keep that going until the end of the season.”
Ter-Stegen also told of what it has been like to come to a different city at such a tender age.
“It was different coming from Monchengladbach to a big city. It’s my first time away from home and it’s been a big change with a different culture.
“It’s something completely new that I was looking forward to, and with good reason. It’s not only the football that’s fantastic but also the surroundings.
“It's difficult being in and out of the team and not playing all the games, but that's part of the development of a player.
“I'm glad I can play in the Champions League and that we're in the Copa del Rey final. That's reward for my work,” he added.
