- Mix of anticipation and restraint at Karlsruhe SC
For trainer Christian Eichner, the overhaul that took place at Karlsruher SC during the summer break is a mix of anticipation and restraint. "It's still quite difficult to get a feel for it," the KSC coach told the German Press Agency.
With 13 departures, there are also 13 new arrivals ahead of the opening game in the 2nd Bundesliga on Saturday (13:00 CET/Sky) against 1. FC Nuremberg. However, the average age is 19.7 years, excluding midfielder Robin Heußer (27) and backup goalkeeper Robin Himmelmann (35). "You could say that I'm very satisfied with the profiles we've gained," explains sports director Sebastian Freis.
Basically, Eichner believes they have a good core that has experienced things together and knows the coach. "We need to try to expand this core quickly so the new guys can take the next step quickly," he explains. He and his coaching team will support each player to the fullest. "In the end, they have to go and fly alone," emphasizes the 41-year-old.
"I can only add that we're never nervous about this point. In the 2nd Bundesliga, it's normal not to have a double or third backup on every position without losing quality. So it's factored into our squad planning. It's not a point that makes us anxious," Freis adds.
Schleusener up for departure?
Striker Fabian Schleusener has received an offer from Turkish second-division side Sakaryaspor. The 32-year-old is one of the players the club won't put insurmountable financial hurdles in the way of if they want to leave. "Fabian has told us that he could imagine a change," confirms Freis, who also reveals that the club is still looking for a striker who could "optimize or complement" the team. "We'll have to evaluate the situation when someone new comes in. Whether we'll then implement that or if Fabian will continue to play for KSC this season," he explains.
Meanwhile, Hoffenheim loanee Bambasé Conté has good chances of starting against Nuremberg. The 21-year-old, along with Robin Heußer and Lasse Günther (both SV Wehen Wiesbaden), has impressed as one of three new signings for the starting lineup.
The following 13 departures and 13 new arrivals indicate a significant transformation in the team, as mentioned by coach Christian Eichner. Eichner believes they have a good core that has experienced things together and knows the coach, and they aim to expand this group quickly to help the new players progress faster.
