Mannheim's Waldhof Eyeing Second League, Plus Additional Joiners Mindful in Sight
SV Waldhof Mannheim Looking to Strengthen Squad Ahead of Crucial Home Games
SV Waldhof Mannheim, currently in the third division, are gearing up for their upcoming home games against Energie Cottbus and VfB Stuttgart II, with hopes of securing a place in the top third of the table.
The club's general manager, Gerhard Zuber, has hinted at further new players joining the squad. While he has not named any specific individuals yet, he did mention that reinforcements are necessary due to the possibility of injuries throughout a season.
One potential signing for Mannheim is Kerim Calhanoglu, who is currently training with the club on trial. Calhanoglu's contract with SpVgg Greuther FΓΌrth expired on June 30.
Mannheim is not well-stocked in the youth department and plans to add one or two players from the youth or unsigned players. Zuber also mentioned that more young players would join the squad to comply with youth regulations.
Recent signings Adama Diakhaby (ACSM Poli Iasi), Diego Michel (FC Sochaux), and Masca (CD Eldense) have shown potential but are not yet at 100%. The club is conducting market analysis to potentially sign players from abroad.
New coach Luc Holtz took over from Dominik Glawogler on August 12. Zuber aims for a gradual improvement to make the club second division-worthy again. A step-by-step development is planned, with the goal of reaching the 2. Bundesliga in the near future.
Zuber stated that the squad is fundamentally solid, but they aim to become less predictable and to bring Waldhof to higher regions. The team's goal is clear - to establish a place in the top tiers of German football.
During the international break, Mannheim played a friendly match against SV Darmstadt 98, ending in a 5:5 draw. This game provided an opportunity for the players to test their skills and strategies against a higher-division opponent.
Despite the transfer deadline, Mannheim could still sign Calhanoglu if negotiations prove successful. Other players may also be considered for the squad, but Zuber has not specified.
In an interview with "kicker", Zuber emphasized that he is open to finding reinforcements from other countries. The team's focus is on strengthening their squad and moving up the league standings.
As the season progresses, fans can expect to see exciting changes and developments in SV Waldhof Mannheim's lineup. The club is determined to make a mark in the third division and work their way up to the 2. Bundesliga.
