Demoted 1. FC Köln encounters chaos
FC Köln has been relegated to the 2nd Bundesliga due to a clear defeat in Heidenheim in the last matchday. The family club failed to perform a miracle, resulting in pressing questions about the future of the team. One of the most significant concerns is the transfer ban imposed on the club.
After the game, Florian Kainz, the captain of 1. FC Köln, struggled to comfort the fans. He kept his distance, protected by several security guards. Kainz, who had been with the club for five and a half years, expressed his disappointment. "We've always managed it somehow. But not this season." This is the seventh time in the club's history that it has been relegated. The players faced the wrath of the disappointed fans who yelled, "We're Cologne, and you're not."
Goalkeeper Marvin Schwäbe acknowledged the fans' discontent, claiming that saying sorry would be somewhat disrespectful. Christian Keller, the sporting director, also shared his disappointment. Despite facing numerous questions about the future of some regular players and coach Schultz, he requested some rest as it was emotional for them.
The weakest attack in the league
The transfer ban imposed by FIFA could create a challenging situation for the club. The ban, which allows only loaned players to be brought back, also applies in the upcoming summer. "It's difficult when you don't know what squad you have at your disposal," said Kainz.
Cologne could have salvaged its 16th place in the relegation spots if they won against Heidenheim and if Union Berlin lost against SC Freiburg. However, their dreams were shattered. Eren Dinkci's opening goal was assisted by Jeff Chabot unwittingly deflecting the ball into the net. Six minutes later, Faride Alidou lost possession, and Dinkci scored the second goal for Heidenheim. Tim Kleindienst set up the third goal for Dinkci with a smart pass. Kevin Sessa and Jan-Niklas Beste completed the scoring for Heidenheim.
Cologne's attack was weak in the first half, with the players failing to create any effective chances. Even Steffen Tigges' goal in the 64th minute did little to turn the game around. The club had the weakest attack in the league with a dismal 28 goals scored. The lack of efficiency was a significant issue throughout the season. Injuries also played a part in the team's struggles. Schwäbe, the goalkeeper, said, "The statistics don't lie. We needed at least ten to 15 more goals." Davie Selke, the club's top scorer with six goals, also missed the match.
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In the midst of the chaos, 1.FC Cologne finds itself in a relegation battle within the Soccer Bundesliga. Despite showing resilience in previous seasons, the team's weak attack and inconsistent performances this season have placed them in a precarious position.
Following their relegation, the transfer ban imposed on 1.FC Cologne by FIFA is adding to their woes. The ban, which only allows loaned players to return, will create challenges for the club in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Source: www.ntv.de
