- Hoffenheim with "a few open sites" before start
After an extremely turbulent preparation, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim is entering the new season without a clear round goal and with many question marks. "We haven't actually had the opportunity to define a goal for this season yet. The squad is not yet complete," said coach Pellegrino Matarazzo ahead of the first round match in the DFB-Pokal on Friday (6:00 PM/Sky) against Würzburg Kickers.
Dissatisfaction with construction sites in the squad
"If I'm honest, there were other issues that were more important to clarify. That will probably come in the next few weeks," added the 46-year-old. The departure of almost the entire management around long-standing manager Alexander Rosen has delayed the transfer activities of the North Baden Bundesliga club. So far, the only new signing for the Europa League participant is Alexander Prass from Sturm Graz.
Matarazzo once again expressed his dissatisfaction with the personnel planning before the first league game against the Bavarian regional league team. "That further new signings can only be integrated after preparation is exactly what is dissatisfying," he said. At the same time, he emphasized: "I know what situation we are in and we are looking for solutions. It is currently what it is - and we are moving forward."
Return of Berisha imminent
It was certainly not an optimal preparation, especially since they are starting into a triple burden with league, cup and European Cup. "We have a few open construction sites in the squad. Tomorrow the round starts and the construction sites are still open, especially regarding the central defender position," explained Matarazzo.
On top of that, the Kraichgauer have to cope with some injury-related absences and the departure of national striker Maximilian Beier (to Borussia Dortmund). At least, the return of striker Mergim Berisha is pending, who has been missing for nine months due to a cruciate ligament tear. After a conversation with the team doctor and the athletic trainer, it will be decided whether the former Augsburger will already be in Würzburg or the following week for the Bundesliga start against Holstein Kiel back in the squad.
Despite focusing on addressing other pressing matters, Matarazzo acknowledged the necessity of addressing the lingering issues in the squad, particularly at the central defender position. The return of Mergim Berisha, who has been sidelined for nine months due to a cruciate ligament tear, could provide some much-needed reinforcement, with his potential return either in Würzburg or for the Bundesliga opener against Holstein Kiel.
