Football Season Guide

Bielefeld came close to dropping back down to the third-tier last season, only securing their safety on the final day. The club and coach Kniat decided to part company in the summer despite him taking the club forward in recent years, former player Oliver Kirch will step into the role. Despite securing permanent deals for defender Bauer and winger Rochelt, Bielefeld have made only one other signing so far and this is a concern with the start of the season looming. The lack of stability in the right-back position has at least been rectified with the purchase of Koudossou from Augsburg, his pace and attacking support will be a great benefit, providing he can stay fit. At this present time Bielefeld are in need of reinforcements, there has yet to be a replacement for leader and captain Corboz, who left for Grenoble while a goalkeeper may also be required with Kerksen attracting interest from other clubs. Bielefeld are likely to be brave and attacking with plenty of resilience and coach Kirch has a good history of developing young players. Home form will also be the key to picking up points. A lack of strength in depth is likely to leave them vulnerable, especially if injuries hit. The absence of an out and out goalscorer up front is also something that needs rectifying.