Kicker: Werder Bremen pre-season update - New signings, training camp, Zetterer set to stay
Kicker reports that further additions are expected outfield, while for now, the situation appears to be settled in between the sticks.
Following Werder's 6-0 friendly win against FC Verden, Head of Professional Football Peter Niemeyer provided an update on the club's transfer plans. Standing nearby was newly signed centre-back Maximilian Wöber, so naturally, the question arose: will he remain the club’s only new signing before the team heads away for pre-season preparations?
“That remains to be seen,” Niemeyer said. “We're definitely working on it, and I think something will still happen. I can't say exactly when, but of course, it would be ideal if we could add some movement to the squad before the training camp begins.
No Deal for Asllani, Injury Worries Mount
One player who won’t be joining the club is Fisnik Asllani. Both Hoffenheim and Werder coach Horst Steffen have ruled out a move for the 22-year-old forward. In the meantime, Werder are dealing with injury concerns: Marvin Ducksch remains sidelined, and midfielder Jens Stage picked up a knock during the match against Verden. The extent of Stage’s injury is not yet known.
Does this increase the club’s urgency in the transfer market?
“I think we’re already well-equipped up front,” Niemeyer said. “But of course, we’re still looking in all areas to see if there’s a way we can improve.”
The club’s plan, according to Niemeyer, is to “put the squad together as soon as possible” with the hope of keeping player turnover to a minimum once the camp begins. “But of course, things don’t always go according to plan,” he admitted. “We’ll handle whatever comes our way.”
Zetterer Likely to Stay, But Leaves Door Slightly Open
While changes are still possible in most areas of the pitch, the goalkeeper situation seems resolved for the moment. Veteran Markus Kolke will remain the third-choice keeper, young talent Mio Backhaus recently extended his contract, and first-choice goalkeeper Michael Zetterer has indicated that he expects to stay.
“I’m very much assuming my future is here,” said the 30-year-old. “But let’s be honest, this is football. You should never say never. It’s no secret that Werder need income, and no player is completely off the table.”
Still, Zetterer made it clear that he has no intention of returning to a backup role after establishing himself as Bremen’s number one over the past 18 months.
“That’s not the path I see for myself,” he said. “I’ve had good conversations with Coach Steffen and goalkeeping coach Christian Vander. They’ve both made it clear that I’ll be going into pre-season as the number one, and I plan to keep it that way.”
