Merse Maier - translated interview

Interview posted on May 9, 2025

❓ Please introduce yourself to the readers! Tell us a bit about yourself, your family, and your career so far (how you joined your current team, etc.)

🗣 Hi! I'm Merse Maier, 18 years old, and I play as a goalkeeper for SC Braga in Portugal. I joined the club last summer and have played in several matches, mostly in the U23 league. I was born in Hungary and lived and played football there until I was 17. I came from the Vasas academy and in November 2023, I had the opportunity to train with Boavista's senior team until the end of the season. That period was extremely valuable — I developed a lot and adapted to the pace of senior football. When it became clear in the summer that they couldn't sign me, we had to look for another club. I then got a chance to go on a one-week trial with Braga, where I performed well and they signed me.

❓ How does it feel to play at Braga's academy? What is life like in Portugal?

🗣 It's a huge honor to represent such a big club. I feel valued, they really take care of me, and everything is in place for me to develop a lot. Over the past year, I've made many friendships, I feel really good here, and I hope it continues like this.

❓ What are your short-term and long-term goals in football? Is there a club or league you'd especially like to play in someday?

🗣 My short-term goal is to get more opportunities next season and be able to help the team. Of course, it would be amazing to debut for the senior team one day, but that's a long-term goal. I want to go step by step and get the most out of myself.

❓ If you have the chance, do you watch Hungarian football? Do you have a favorite Hungarian team?

🗣 To be honest, I usually watch the Champions League or matches from my own U23 category. One of the TV apps lets me watch the full games, so I always try to prepare for upcoming matches and pick up things that can help me during games. Of course, when a Hungarian team qualifies for European competitions, I watch their matches. I also always cheer for the national team. However, I don't have a favorite Hungarian club.

❓ Do you have a role model?

🗣 I look up to many people, especially athletes. I really admire Áron Szilágyi's determination, Kobe Bryant's mentality, and Cristiano Ronaldo's willpower. But my real role models are my parents. They've always stood by me and showed me that with hard and persistent work, anything is possible in life. And also Jesus Christ — without His teachings, I wouldn't be who I am today.

❓ What do you like to do in your free time, when you're not training or playing?

🗣 That's a tricky question right now because besides my daily tasks, studying takes up all my free time as I'm about to graduate. Otherwise, I like to spend my free time actively — mostly in the gym or on the pitch. I also try to find activities that help me grow and improve, like reading or logic games. I enjoy playing chess as well.

❓ If you had the chance, would you represent Hungary as a national team player?

🗣 Absolutely! As I mentioned, I was born in Hungary, I speak and think in Hungarian. Most of my family, friends, and my girlfriend are Hungarian. It would be a dream come true to wear the national jersey!