Luuk de Jong believes scoring goals is far easier in the Netherlands than in Germany, saying ‘every game is a top game’ the Bundesliga.
De Jong completed a 15 million-euro transfer from Twente to Borussia Moenchengladbach earlier this week after a fine season in the Eredivisie had also seen him linked with the likes of Newcastle United.
The 21-year-old is confident he can prove a success in Germany, but admitted it may take some time to adapt to the greater demands of the Bundesliga.
When asked if it is easier to score goals in Netherlands, he told Bild: “Definitely. The level is not as high as in Germany. In the Bundesliga, every game is a top game.
“Marco Reus scored 18 (league) goals last season – that’s a very good mark. But I am a striker and I want to score as well. A number is difficult to predict because it’s my first season.”
De Jong also stressed that winning the title this season is not imperative for Moenchengladbach, but given the choice, he would prefer to get his hands on silverware than finish as the division’s top scorer.
“At the moment, this a bit too much to think about. But I would be happy to give up the scorers title if it meant challenging at the top of the table,” he said.
“The club has made the right steps with its transfer. But we should remain realistic. Maybe we can win the league in the next five years. I didn’t sign until 2017 without having any long-term objectives.”
The Netherlands international also revealed he is hoping to learn from Bundesliga scoring sensation and compatriot Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who finished as the division’s top marksman last season, but stressed that it is too early to draw comparisons.
“Klaas is a super striker, Germany’s best scorer,” de Jong said.
“I would like to reach his level one day, it would be very good. But I’m only 21 years old, I can do much to learn from him, his technique, his movements and his composure.”
