Football Season Guide

Freiburg hit new heights last season, reaching a first European final in their history, league form did suffer slightly as a result, but they still managed to secure a Conference League place in 7th position. The Breisgau club have a dependable squad which remains largely together for the new campaign with some added extras to improve the strength in depth. Goalkeeper Atubolo is expected to move on before the window shuts so Mo Backhaus has been brought in as his replacement. The former Bremen stopper is only 22 but has potential to improve his development further. New signings Yamamoto and Engelhardt should have enough quality between them to help fill the void after the inevitable loss of dynamic midfielder Manzambi, although both are more defence minded. Keisuke Goto adds to the growing Japanese contingent at the club and should provide healthy support to target-man Matanovic up front. Freiburg still have plenty of experience in the squad with Ginter, Grifo, Eggestein, and Gunter, this coupled with youthful talent should make them strong opposition for most. Due to their style of play, Freiburg could be vulnerable defensively especially against the top sides, they also struggled away from home last season so this could be a potential weakness again.