Cole Campbell first stepped onto a Bundesliga pitch at the tender age of 18, debuting for Borussia Dortmund with a burst of youthful promise. A subsequent loan to Hoffenheim, however, proved disappointing, leaving him on the sidelines for nearly two years before he finally earned his first start in Germany’s top flight.
The long wait, though arduous, turned out to be a pivotal period in his development. Now plying his trade with Elversberg, the Texas‑born striker announced his arrival in spectacular fashion. In his first full‑match appearance for the club, Campbell found the net in a thrilling 3‑2 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. He followed that up with a starting role in a 4‑3 win against Borussia Mönchengladbach, and an off‑side call denied him an equaliser against the mighty Bayern Munich.
"I went to celebrate and then when I turned around I was confused because I did not see any of my teammates. It was an amazing feeling even though it did not count," Campbell recalled, repeatedly using the word "amazing" to describe his whirlwind month. Elversberg, a modest side that has just earned its maiden season in the Bundesliga, could not have imagined being the launchpad for a 20‑year‑old’s career. Yet four games into the campaign, this small club and its youthful squad have become the talk of the league.
"The expectations were actually the opposite of what we have shown so far," Campbell said. "We give everything we have and try to play the best football we can, without fear, even against teams like Bayern." Playing against world‑class opponents is undeniably a step up, but Campbell’s mantra is simple: ignore the stature of the opposition and focus on his own game. He highlighted the importance of bravery for an attacking player, insisting that one must not shy away from one‑on‑one duels or creative attempts because of an opponent’s reputation. "We will keep being brave, give 100 per cent and see what happens," he affirmed.
He already feels at home in his new surroundings. When asked about his friends at the club, Campbell named almost the entire squad, emphasizing the tight‑knit nature of the team.
"We are a very close team. I cannot single out one person," he laughed. The atmosphere reminds him of Iceland, where he spent part of his childhood, and he appreciates the small‑town vibe that Elversberg offers. "There are definite similarities.
That small‑town feel is similar to when I was in Iceland, so I really like it here," he explained, adding that he enjoys the local coffee shops and has a particular fondness for schnitzel—though he admits it isn’t the healthiest regular fare. Campbell has also embraced life in Germany off the pitch, learning the language and adapting to the culture.
He noted that the transition was initially challenging, but his multicultural background helped. His mother, former Icelandic international Rakel Karvelsson, occasionally trains with him, providing a fun and competitive environment. "She still challenges me to a two‑touch game, although she doesn’t win anymore. When I was 14 or 15 I started beating her," he chuckled.
Despite his Icelandic heritage, Campbell has committed his international future to the United States. "That is set in stone," he declared, and his senior debut for the USMNT came in a recent friendly win over Canada.
The past two years have been a rollercoaster for the young forward. After his early breakthrough at Dortmund, a loan spell at Hoffenheim yielded only five substitute appearances over five months, leaving him feeling underutilised. "I was expecting to play more," he admitted.
Some might view that period as wasted, but Campbell refuses to see it that way. "My mindset then was very different.
The lessons I learned in those 22 months would not have happened if things had gone smoothly. It built my character," he reflected. Faith also plays a central role in Campbell’s life. He frequently references his belief in God, describing it as a source of strength during the highs and lows of his career.
"Trusting in the plan that God has for you is something you always have to do. It has strengthened my mental toughness and made me a better player," he said.
When asked about comparisons to fellow American star Christian Pulisic, Campbell dismissed them, noting that "comparison is the thief of joy," a sentiment he attributes to biblical teaching. Campbell’s move to Elversberg was motivated by a need for regular playing time and a larger role than he had at Dortmund. "I needed minutes to develop, and this club gave me that opportunity," he explained.
The record signing status brings pressure, but also trust from the club’s hierarchy. "The pressure was there before the money, but the confidence they have in me is huge," he added.
He praised the pathway that Elversberg offers, citing the success of players like Nick Woltemade, Younes Ebnoutalib and Fisnik Asllani, who have all used the club as a springboard for their careers. "Seeing other players get minutes and progress here convinced me that this was the right step," Campbell said. Head coach Vincent Wagner has also been instrumental in Campbell’s growth, especially on the defensive side of his game. "My defensive work has improved a lot thanks to him," Campbell acknowledged.
Looking ahead, Campbell’s goal is to become "the best version" of himself, recognizing that each player’s journey is unique. With the support of Elversberg, his faith, and a renewed sense of purpose, the young American is seizing his chance in the Bundesliga and aiming to make a lasting impact both on and off the field.