Ansgar’s roots trace back to Göttingen, a city in Germany where he was born and raised. His background is a blend of German and Ghanaian heritage—his mother is German, and his father is from Ghana. However, he was primarily raised by his single mother after his parents separated early in his life. Growing up, Ansgar was a very determined kid who found football as his true passion and escape. He started kicking a ball around at the tender age of four with a local club called SVG Göttingen. From the very beginning, it was clear he had a natural talent for the game.
By the time he was a teenager, his skills caught the attention of bigger clubs. At 13, he joined the youth academy of Hannover 96, which is known for developing young talent. Just a year later, Borussia Dortmund, one of Germany’s football giants, swooped in and brought him into their youth ranks. Balancing schoolwork and football wasn’t always easy, but with the unwavering support of his mother, Ansgar stayed focused and kept pushing forward. His humble beginnings and family support have played a big role in shaping the hardworking player he is today.
When you watch Ansgar Knauff play, the first thing that jumps out is his lightning-fast pace. He’s a winger who loves to take on defenders one-on-one, using his speed and dribbling skills to create chances. He’s comfortable hugging the right touchline, delivering sharp crosses into the box, or cutting inside to take shots on goal. But what’s really impressive is how he’s evolved defensively—he’s not just about attacking flair anymore. Coaches have praised his stamina and willingness to track back and help out the defense, which shows his maturity on the pitch.
His work rate is off the charts. In fact, in one Bundesliga match, he covered over 9 kilometers, which is a huge distance for a winger. This kind of effort makes him a valuable asset for any team. While he’s still working on his positioning and decision-making in some situations, his attitude and dedication mean these areas will improve quickly. Overall, Ansgar’s style is a blend of raw speed, technical skill, and increasing tactical awareness—making him a very exciting player to watch.