St. Pauli’s captain Jackson Irvine gave a colourful interview with Germany’s main sporting tabloid this week. Get German Football News is pleased to supply an full translation of the Australian’s conversation with the Wednesday print edition of Sport Bild.
Irvine – also the captain of the Australia national team – had some choice words ahead of the 2026 World Cup in America, Mexico and Canada. As the man tasked with leading Germany’s notoriously most leftist club, Irvine had little choice but to comment on politics.
The 32-year-old nevertheless spoke on lighter topics as well. Among these were his massive jersey collection, his plans after football, and his sincere desire to share a beer with Eric Cantona.
Mr. Irvine, How do you feel about Bayern president Uli Hoeneß investing €27m in St. Pauli?
“The fact that a giant from Germany’s most successful club invested in us is a strong message. It shows that others in the footballing business value St. Pauli. I’m happy to be a part of this collective, but I’m only a football player. I’m a part of this club [first and foremost].”
The Hamburger Abdendblatt [newspaper] wrote that “If professional football was tinder, St. Pauli and Jackson Irvine would be a perfect match.”
“[Laughs]. I back that statement. The partnership is enjoyed by both sides. St. Pauli is bigger and brighter than I could have envisioned at my arrival here four years ago. When I first signed on here, it was purely a sporting decision.”
Do you think there are similar links between players and club in today’s footballing world?
“It’s theoretically similar with Thomas Müller and FC Bayern. In modern football it’s nevertheless become a rarity. Players rarely stay long enough to build a meaningful relationship.“
In three words, what are the most important characteristics of St. Pauli for you?
“Community, respect, and attitude. Though it is very difficult to name just three words.”
Is it true that before you transferred [to St. Pauli], you came into contact with the club at a political demonstration?
“I’ve known about the club for quite some time. When I played for Celtic, I experienced some friendlies between the clubs. In 2020, my wife and I were at a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Hull.
“The Yorkshire St. Pauli Fan club was there with the skull-and-crossbones on flags and shirts. We took pictures. That must have been a sign.”
Was that the last demonstration that you attended?
“No, I’ve been to a few. When one has the chance to make one’s voice heard, one should use it.
“Of course, there’s very little time in professional football. In 2020 I was without a club.“
And now you play for St. Pauli and are close to qualifying for the World Cup again with Australia. Does it feel like a dream?
“It’s the other way around. The look back feels like a nightmare. I was without a club for almost ten months and training by myself in ...
