"A new aggressive individual is set to emerge, overshadowing the relatively benign HSV, with potentially damaging consequences."
HSV suffered a 0:2 defeat at the hands of St. Pauli in the latest Hamburg derby, a result that left the team "disgusting" according to coach Tim Walter.
The match began with a setback for HSV as Miro Muheim arrived too late at a corner before the first goal against St. Pauli (19'). The decisive pass was often missing in the offensive play, a concern highlighted by captain Yussuf Poulsen.
Poulsen also emphasised the need for more consistency in the team's performance, stating that crossing the ball should only be done if there are players to receive it. He summarised that HSV was not the better team during the game.
Despite the defeat, the fans showed their support for the HSV players, singing "I love Hamburg very much" and waving their scarves at the final whistle.
In an effort to improve their midfield, HSV is looking for a creative midfielder for the offensive play. Sporting director Stefan Kuntz announced this, but did not mention any specific names of the candidates. The transfer window closes on Monday, and HSV is "working on" one or more candidates for the midfield position.
The new player should be able to transport the game from midfield into the front third, play the last passes, and be dangerous in front of goal. The suspected midfielder that HSV wanted to acquire before the end of the transfer window is FΓ‘bio Vieira, who was signed on loan from FC Arsenal. HSV considers this signing the last high-quality midfield spot to fill before closing the transfer period.
After the international break, HSV will face a challenging task as they prepare to play against Bayern Munich. A defeat against Bayern would almost be a sensation, given HSV's current form. However, Kuntz and sporting director Claus Costa are responsible for squad planning, and they must improve in every respect to have a realistic chance of surviving in the Bundesliga.
Giorgi Gocholeishvili lost a press battle before the second goal against St. Pauli (60'), another area that needs attention as HSV looks to bounce back from this disappointing derby loss.
