Football Season Guide

Despite finishing a respectable 6th position last season, Dusseldorf were unable to hit the heights of the previous campaign. They started strongly and were unbeaten until October, but a big dip in form midway through the season scuppered their chances of promotion. The club have continued to keep faith with coach Daniel Thioune in the hope that he can finally get them across the line in terms of promotion. The squad has been strengthened during the summer so they should be in a position to compete at the top end again. Dusseldorf were unable to keep hold of key midfielder Johannesson, who left for Koln, but have moved quickly to try and fill the void. El Azzouzi should provide a strong physical presence and on-loan Greek international Alexandropoulos is an energetic box-to-box midfielder. Talented young wingers Raimund and Hettwer should provide pace on the flanks but are relatively untested as yet. Versatile Danish forward Rasmussen is also one to watch from Ajax, but a lack of an out and out goalscorer could be an issue after Kownacki chose a new direction with Hertha. You would expect Dusseldorf to be organised defensively this coming campaign and their adaptable style means they will be difficult opponents for many.