Football Season Guide

Darmstadt was the surprise package of Bundesliga 2 last season and almost pulled off a spectacular promotion, they just fell short after an inconsistent end to the campaign and eventually finished a more than credible fourth place. Coach Torsten Lieberknecht will continue as boss this season and that can only be a good thing. He instilled a real togetherness within the group last time out, brings great character to the touchline, and talks well during interviews. The club has been relatively quiet in the transfer market so far but there is still time for new recruits. Pacey Danish winger Magnus Warming is a good addition on the left side and can also add some goals to the attack. Hasim Ben Balla could be good cover in defensive midfield but cannot be relied upon due to persistent injury problems last season. Going forward was a real strong point last season for Darmstadt, with Philipp Tietz and Luca Pfeiffer forming a formidable partnership up front,unfortunately only the former remains after Pfeiffer returned to his parent-club Mitdjyland. Midfielder Tim Skarke has also left for Union Berlin and will be a loss.