1 month ago
Bayer Leverkusen and NK Celje clash this Wednesday at the BayArena of the UEFA Europa League. Bayer Leverkusen, who have already won this tournament, mark their 21st participation in the competition, whilst NK Celje go into their 2nd.
In their last game, Bayer Leverkusen drew 2-2 with FC Augsburg (1. Bundesliga 2026/27). Last time out, NK Celje slipped to a 2-1 defeat against NK Bravo (Slovenian League 2026/27).
Montrell Culbreath - Foot Injury
Bayer Leverkusen ( vs FC Augsburg 2026-09-12): Mark Flekken, Jarell Quansah, Edmond Tapsoba, Facundo Medina, Miguel Gutiérrez, Aleix García, Equi Fernández, Moussa Diaby, Ibrahim Maza, Afonso Moreira, Christian Kofane
NK Celje ( vs NK Bravo 2026-09-12): Zan Luk Leban, Pijus Sirvys, Leonardo Koutris, Artemijus Tutyskinas, Papa Mustapha, Mark Zabukovnik, Darko Hrka, Mario Kvesić, Benjamin Verbic, Matic Ivansek, Blaz Kramer
#bayer #bayarena
In their last game, Bayer Leverkusen drew 2-2 with FC Augsburg (1. Bundesliga 2026/27). Last time out, NK Celje slipped to a 2-1 defeat against NK Bravo (Slovenian League 2026/27).
Montrell Culbreath - Foot Injury
Bayer Leverkusen ( vs FC Augsburg 2026-09-12): Mark Flekken, Jarell Quansah, Edmond Tapsoba, Facundo Medina, Miguel Gutiérrez, Aleix García, Equi Fernández, Moussa Diaby, Ibrahim Maza, Afonso Moreira, Christian Kofane
NK Celje ( vs NK Bravo 2026-09-12): Zan Luk Leban, Pijus Sirvys, Leonardo Koutris, Artemijus Tutyskinas, Papa Mustapha, Mark Zabukovnik, Darko Hrka, Mario Kvesić, Benjamin Verbic, Matic Ivansek, Blaz Kramer
#bayer #bayarena
1 month ago
Bayer Leverkusen took a deserved lead into the latter stages of the first half against Bundesliga leaders Augsburg, with Christian Kofane rewarding an increasingly threatening display from the visitors.
Augsburg actually created the first opening inside the opening minute, as Robin Fellhauer's low delivery found Hennes Behrens at the far post, only for Facundo Medina to make an important block.
Leverkusen quickly began to grow into the contest, however, with Moussa Diaby causing problems down the right and Kofane heading an Aleix Garcia corner narrowly wide.
Ibrahim Maza was next to threaten, driving into the penalty area before seeing a left-footed effort blocked, while Finn Dahmen was called upon to deny a further Leverkusen opening after Medina picked out a run in behind.
The visitors eventually made their pressure count in the 18th minute, when Kofane converted following an **** ist from Edmond Tapsoba to put Carles Martinez's side in front.
#kofane #augsburg
Augsburg actually created the first opening inside the opening minute, as Robin Fellhauer's low delivery found Hennes Behrens at the far post, only for Facundo Medina to make an important block.
Leverkusen quickly began to grow into the contest, however, with Moussa Diaby causing problems down the right and Kofane heading an Aleix Garcia corner narrowly wide.
Ibrahim Maza was next to threaten, driving into the penalty area before seeing a left-footed effort blocked, while Finn Dahmen was called upon to deny a further Leverkusen opening after Medina picked out a run in behind.
The visitors eventually made their pressure count in the 18th minute, when Kofane converted following an **** ist from Edmond Tapsoba to put Carles Martinez's side in front.
#kofane #augsburg
1 month ago
Three of the four teams that reached the third Bundesliga matchday with a 100% record were in action on Saturday morning (12).
And two of them picked up another win, continuing to share top spot in the league.
Borussia Dortmund beat newly promoted Paderborn, while Freiburg thrashed Borussia Mönchengladbach.
The exception was Augsburg, who started the day in first place but conceded a late equalizer to Bayer Leverkusen.
Elversberg could also end the round with nine points from three matches, as they face Bayern Munich this Sunday (13).
#saturday
And two of them picked up another win, continuing to share top spot in the league.
Borussia Dortmund beat newly promoted Paderborn, while Freiburg thrashed Borussia Mönchengladbach.
The exception was Augsburg, who started the day in first place but conceded a late equalizer to Bayer Leverkusen.
Elversberg could also end the round with nine points from three matches, as they face Bayern Munich this Sunday (13).
#saturday
1 month ago
On a cloudy, seventeen-degree evening in the federal capital, 1. FC Union Berlin (0-1-1, 15th) played host to FC Schalke 04 (0-1-1, 14th) in the third matchweek of their 2026/27 Bundesliga campaigns at Stadion An der Alten Försterei.
Union Berlin, in their eighth Bundesliga season, managed to draw Eintracht Frankfurt 3-3 on the opening matchweek, but failed to land a single shot on target in an 0-4 defeat to Bayer 04 Leverkusen last weekend. As for Schalke, who return to the Bundesliga for the first time since 2022/23, they lost their opener 0-3 to FC Augsburg but managed to follow it with a scoreless draw against the reigning German champions, FC Bayern München.
This is the seventh meeting between the two sides in their histories, with the current head-to-head record an even 1-4-1. Schalke's lone win came in 2019/20, a 2-1 result at Veltins-Arena - Union's only victory was a dominant 6-1 result in the 2022/23 season, with that match also having been played in Gelsenkirchen. With the other sixteen teams yet to play their third matches, the winning side from this match would move up to seventh place in the table, and will likely be in the middle of the table by the time that all matches are complete on Sunday.
The hosts, in red, would kick off the match and go left to right in the opening term, with Schalke, in blue, going right to left when on the attack. It would take ten minutes for the visitors to get the first chance, as a through ball from Robin Gosens on the left side of the Union half would reach Kenan Karaman at the edge of the box. The Turkish striker and team captain saw enough ******* e to direct a shot towards the top-left corner, and did not miss by much, as his right-footed attempt went over the hands of a jumping Frederik Rønnow and slightly over the bar.
Schalke would win a corner just five minutes later, whipped in near-post by Adil Aouchiche; the cross would be met by a powerful header from Dejan Ljubičić, but the Austrian attacking midfielder would send the ball well above the top-right corner and out of play. Aouchiche would then get another chance of his own in the nineteenth minute, but his right-footed curler towards the top-left corner was fantastically denied by a leaping Rønnow.
#played
Union Berlin, in their eighth Bundesliga season, managed to draw Eintracht Frankfurt 3-3 on the opening matchweek, but failed to land a single shot on target in an 0-4 defeat to Bayer 04 Leverkusen last weekend. As for Schalke, who return to the Bundesliga for the first time since 2022/23, they lost their opener 0-3 to FC Augsburg but managed to follow it with a scoreless draw against the reigning German champions, FC Bayern München.
This is the seventh meeting between the two sides in their histories, with the current head-to-head record an even 1-4-1. Schalke's lone win came in 2019/20, a 2-1 result at Veltins-Arena - Union's only victory was a dominant 6-1 result in the 2022/23 season, with that match also having been played in Gelsenkirchen. With the other sixteen teams yet to play their third matches, the winning side from this match would move up to seventh place in the table, and will likely be in the middle of the table by the time that all matches are complete on Sunday.
The hosts, in red, would kick off the match and go left to right in the opening term, with Schalke, in blue, going right to left when on the attack. It would take ten minutes for the visitors to get the first chance, as a through ball from Robin Gosens on the left side of the Union half would reach Kenan Karaman at the edge of the box. The Turkish striker and team captain saw enough ******* e to direct a shot towards the top-left corner, and did not miss by much, as his right-footed attempt went over the hands of a jumping Frederik Rønnow and slightly over the bar.
Schalke would win a corner just five minutes later, whipped in near-post by Adil Aouchiche; the cross would be met by a powerful header from Dejan Ljubičić, but the Austrian attacking midfielder would send the ball well above the top-right corner and out of play. Aouchiche would then get another chance of his own in the nineteenth minute, but his right-footed curler towards the top-left corner was fantastically denied by a leaping Rønnow.
#played
1 month ago
Lazio have officially announced their signing of Portuguese centre-back Diogo Leite on a free transfer following their flying start to the 2026-27 Serie A season, which sees them joint top of the pack after three matches.
The Biancocelesti have confirmed that Leite has joined the club on a free transfer following the expiry of his Union Berlin contract earlier this summer, and that he has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with an option to extend for a further 12 months at the Stadio Olimpico.
BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 16: Leite Diogo of 1. FC Union Berlin during farewell prior to the Bundesliga match between 1. FC Union Berlin and FC Augsburg at Stadion An der Alten Foersterei on May 16, 2026 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
"S.S. Lazio announces the official signing of the footballer Diogo Filipe Monteiro Pinto Leite following the expiration of his contract with FC Union Berlin on June 30, 2026," a statement on the club website confirmed.
"The player has signed a two-year contract with an option to extend for an additional two seasons."
#union #signing #free
The Biancocelesti have confirmed that Leite has joined the club on a free transfer following the expiry of his Union Berlin contract earlier this summer, and that he has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with an option to extend for a further 12 months at the Stadio Olimpico.
BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 16: Leite Diogo of 1. FC Union Berlin during farewell prior to the Bundesliga match between 1. FC Union Berlin and FC Augsburg at Stadion An der Alten Foersterei on May 16, 2026 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
"S.S. Lazio announces the official signing of the footballer Diogo Filipe Monteiro Pinto Leite following the expiration of his contract with FC Union Berlin on June 30, 2026," a statement on the club website confirmed.
"The player has signed a two-year contract with an option to extend for an additional two seasons."
#union #signing #free
1 month ago
Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that Noahkai Banks will not be considered for the USMNT's upcoming camp as the young defender continues to weigh up whether to represent the United States or Germany.
Banks removed himself from consideration earlier this year while he considered his international future, leaving Pochettino with no choice but to leave the Augsburg centre-back out of his plans for now.
The 19-year-old initially joined the USMNT camp in September and had previously represented the country at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-20 level. He did not feature against South Korea or ****** an, however, and has not returned to the senior squad since.
He turns 20 on December 1st, 2026.
Photo by Sarah Stier – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
#banks #year
Banks removed himself from consideration earlier this year while he considered his international future, leaving Pochettino with no choice but to leave the Augsburg centre-back out of his plans for now.
The 19-year-old initially joined the USMNT camp in September and had previously represented the country at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-20 level. He did not feature against South Korea or ****** an, however, and has not returned to the senior squad since.
He turns 20 on December 1st, 2026.
Photo by Sarah Stier – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
#banks #year
1 month ago
MADRID (AP) — Barcelona stayed perfect in the Spanish league by cruising to a 5-0 win at Valencia on Sunday, with Lamine Yamal scoring another brace for the Catalan club.
Arsenal rallied to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League, while Manchester United was stunned in added time to draw 2-2 at Everton.
Augsburg moved to the top of the Bundesliga by winning 4-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt, and American midfielder Giovanni Reyna scored in Strasbourg's 6-2 rout of Troyes in France.
Barcelona won its fourth game in a row at the start of the Spanish league and is the only team with a perfect record after four rounds.
Yamal scored a goal in each half following his first two goals of the season in the win against Rayo Vallecano in the previous round.
#perfect #madrid
Arsenal rallied to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League, while Manchester United was stunned in added time to draw 2-2 at Everton.
Augsburg moved to the top of the Bundesliga by winning 4-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt, and American midfielder Giovanni Reyna scored in Strasbourg's 6-2 rout of Troyes in France.
Barcelona won its fourth game in a row at the start of the Spanish league and is the only team with a perfect record after four rounds.
Yamal scored a goal in each half following his first two goals of the season in the win against Rayo Vallecano in the previous round.
#perfect #madrid
2 months ago
The draw for the second round of the 2026/27 DFB-Pokal took place at the German Football Museum in Dortmund on Saturday evening, producing four ties between Bundesliga clubs and an intriguing reunion between defending champions Bayern Munich and 1. FC Magdeburg.
Bayern will host Magdeburg in a repeat of one of the more memorable cup shocks of the modern era. Then-2. Bundesliga side Magdeburg eliminated the record champions on penalties in the second round of the 2000/01 competition. This time, however, the underdogs will have to attempt another upset at the Allianz Arena.
Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund host Werder Bremen while 1. FC Cologne welcome Union Berlin. Hamburger SV face Eintracht Frankfurt at the Volksparkstadion and Bundesliga newcomers SC Paderborn host VfB Stuttgart in the remaining top-flight encounter.
Three sides from below Germany's top two divisions remain in the competition. Regionalliga outfit SSV Jeddeloh II, who stunned relegated Bundesliga club Heidenheim 5-2 in the opening round, were rewarded with a home tie against Hertha BSC. Rot-Weiss Essen host RB Leipzig while SG Sonnenhof Großaspach welcome FC Augsburg.
The second-round fixtures will be played on October 27 and 28. Exact kickoff times will be confirmed at a later date.
#bayern
Bayern will host Magdeburg in a repeat of one of the more memorable cup shocks of the modern era. Then-2. Bundesliga side Magdeburg eliminated the record champions on penalties in the second round of the 2000/01 competition. This time, however, the underdogs will have to attempt another upset at the Allianz Arena.
Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund host Werder Bremen while 1. FC Cologne welcome Union Berlin. Hamburger SV face Eintracht Frankfurt at the Volksparkstadion and Bundesliga newcomers SC Paderborn host VfB Stuttgart in the remaining top-flight encounter.
Three sides from below Germany's top two divisions remain in the competition. Regionalliga outfit SSV Jeddeloh II, who stunned relegated Bundesliga club Heidenheim 5-2 in the opening round, were rewarded with a home tie against Hertha BSC. Rot-Weiss Essen host RB Leipzig while SG Sonnenhof Großaspach welcome FC Augsburg.
The second-round fixtures will be played on October 27 and 28. Exact kickoff times will be confirmed at a later date.
#bayern
2 months ago
On October 27 and 28, the remaining teams in the DFB-Pokal will continue with the second round. Before they can face off on the pitch, however, tonight's draw had to determine the matchups.
These teams will meet in the 2nd round:
Sonnenhof Großasbach - FC Augsburg
Jeddeloh II - Hertha BSC
Rot-Weiß Essen - Leipzig
#teams #pokal #leipzig
These teams will meet in the 2nd round:
Sonnenhof Großasbach - FC Augsburg
Jeddeloh II - Hertha BSC
Rot-Weiß Essen - Leipzig
#teams #pokal #leipzig
2 months ago
FC Augsburg talisman Anton Kade is a doubt to feature for Manuel Baum's team who travel to face Eintracht Frankfurt this weekend.
Kade departed the training pitches early during the week, and it remains unclear whether he'll be fit in time for Sunday's clash.
"He had to cut training short in Wednesday's session - we don't know yet if he's fit for the weekend," explained coach Baum.
The 47-year-old hinted that a decision on the versatile attacker for their meeting with Frankfurt will come "in the next few hours."
Kade made a strong start to the season in their 3-0 win over Schalke, ****** isting Michael Gregoritsch's goal before scoring himself.
#kade #augsburg #anton
Kade departed the training pitches early during the week, and it remains unclear whether he'll be fit in time for Sunday's clash.
"He had to cut training short in Wednesday's session - we don't know yet if he's fit for the weekend," explained coach Baum.
The 47-year-old hinted that a decision on the versatile attacker for their meeting with Frankfurt will come "in the next few hours."
Kade made a strong start to the season in their 3-0 win over Schalke, ****** isting Michael Gregoritsch's goal before scoring himself.
#kade #augsburg #anton
2 months ago
At the press conference ahead of the home match against Augsburg, Adi Hütter discusses team news, the opponents and new signing Lilian Brassier, among other things.
Eintracht entertain FC Augsburg at Deutsche Bank Park on Sunday evening in their first home game of the 2026/27 Bundesliga season. At the pre-match press conference, head coach Adi Hütter discussed…
… the current situation: "We're working every day in training on implementing what I see and how I want to play football. We showed that in phases against Union Berlin, but I also saw things there that I wasn't pleased with. We want to play proactive football with a lot of passion, which is also the football the fans in the stadium want to see. When that clicks, we'll have success."
… team news: "Nnamdi Collins and Ansgar Knauff are injured, but we're slowly getting to the point where everyone will be fit."
… FC Augsburg: "They made a great start to the season with the win at home to Schalke and will come here with confidence. They're a good side with exciting players, who we'll need to deal with. I expect us to show the fans that we're determined to win. It's possible that not everything will work right away."
#Football #tter #team
Eintracht entertain FC Augsburg at Deutsche Bank Park on Sunday evening in their first home game of the 2026/27 Bundesliga season. At the pre-match press conference, head coach Adi Hütter discussed…
… the current situation: "We're working every day in training on implementing what I see and how I want to play football. We showed that in phases against Union Berlin, but I also saw things there that I wasn't pleased with. We want to play proactive football with a lot of passion, which is also the football the fans in the stadium want to see. When that clicks, we'll have success."
… team news: "Nnamdi Collins and Ansgar Knauff are injured, but we're slowly getting to the point where everyone will be fit."
… FC Augsburg: "They made a great start to the season with the win at home to Schalke and will come here with confidence. They're a good side with exciting players, who we'll need to deal with. I expect us to show the fans that we're determined to win. It's possible that not everything will work right away."
#Football #tter #team
2 months ago
In the summer of 2021, the Swiss player joined BVB. Only Emre Can has been at the club longer – since January 2020. Kobel has made 217 competitive appearances in black and yellow. A milestone is waiting for the 28-year-old right at the start of the league season: his 200th Bundesliga match.
Gregor Kobel is a guarantee of reliability and has become one of the faces of the team. In 2025/26, he was the Bundesliga's best goalkeeper; in four of the last five seasons, he was named the league's top keeper.
Niko Kovac says of him: "He did fantastic work here even before I arrived. We have a great goalkeeper in our ranks. He radiates calm and composure and saves what he has to save. And if it takes a superhuman stop, he's capable of that too."
Is a sentence like that confirmation of years of hard work?"It's very nice to hear something like that, especially from your own coach. He's also been at quite a few places and seen a lot. So a statement like that means a great deal to me."
The son of a former top-flight professional ice hockey player was born in Zurich on St. Nicholas Day in 1997 and trained at Grasshopper Club. In 2014, at the age of 16, he moved to the youth academy of TSG Hoffenheim. After his first appearances for the senior side under coach Julian Nagelsmann, he was loaned to FC Augsburg in January 2019, where he played in 16 of the 17 possible matches in the second half of the season. In the summer of 2019, he joined then-second-division side VfB Stuttgart. A year later, he helped the club win promotion to the Bundesliga. The 1.96-meter athlete has been under contract with Borussia Dortmund since 2021, with his deal extended early until June 2028.
#like
Gregor Kobel is a guarantee of reliability and has become one of the faces of the team. In 2025/26, he was the Bundesliga's best goalkeeper; in four of the last five seasons, he was named the league's top keeper.
Niko Kovac says of him: "He did fantastic work here even before I arrived. We have a great goalkeeper in our ranks. He radiates calm and composure and saves what he has to save. And if it takes a superhuman stop, he's capable of that too."
Is a sentence like that confirmation of years of hard work?"It's very nice to hear something like that, especially from your own coach. He's also been at quite a few places and seen a lot. So a statement like that means a great deal to me."
The son of a former top-flight professional ice hockey player was born in Zurich on St. Nicholas Day in 1997 and trained at Grasshopper Club. In 2014, at the age of 16, he moved to the youth academy of TSG Hoffenheim. After his first appearances for the senior side under coach Julian Nagelsmann, he was loaned to FC Augsburg in January 2019, where he played in 16 of the 17 possible matches in the second half of the season. In the summer of 2019, he joined then-second-division side VfB Stuttgart. A year later, he helped the club win promotion to the Bundesliga. The 1.96-meter athlete has been under contract with Borussia Dortmund since 2021, with his deal extended early until June 2028.
#like
2 months ago
By MLSsoccer staff
TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Signing
Minnesota United FC have acquired forward Maurice Malone from Austrian Bundesliga side SK Sturm Graz, the club announced Monday.
The 26-year-old former German youth international is under contract through the 2029-30 season with an option for 2030-31.
Since developing at German Bundesliga side FC Augsburg, Malone has tallied 47g/32a in 192 first-team matches. Sturm Graz, Austria Wien, FC Basel and Wolfsberger AC are among his different stops throughout Europe.
#tracker #status
TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Signing
Minnesota United FC have acquired forward Maurice Malone from Austrian Bundesliga side SK Sturm Graz, the club announced Monday.
The 26-year-old former German youth international is under contract through the 2029-30 season with an option for 2030-31.
Since developing at German Bundesliga side FC Augsburg, Malone has tallied 47g/32a in 192 first-team matches. Sturm Graz, Austria Wien, FC Basel and Wolfsberger AC are among his different stops throughout Europe.
#tracker #status
2 months ago
After a productive pre-season schedule drew to a close, Leeds United finally begin the 2026/27 Premier League campaign with a trip to face Nottingham Forest on Saturday afternoon.
Last term, the Whites impressed on the return to the top-flight with an outstanding 47 points haul, finishing in 14th place and reaching the Emirates FA Cup semi-finals!
Across the summer, it has been all systems go behind the scenes with United securing the signatures of four very exciting new additions, beginning with Wales international Harry Wilson who joins the club after a stellar season last time out with Fulham that saw him crowned Player of the Year at Craven Cottage.
Then, commanding central defender Tarik Muharemović arrived from Sassuolo before England international James Trafford made the switch on a club-record deal from Manchester City. Further experience was added at the back through Borussia Mönchengladbach's Nico Elvedi.
After an enjoyable tour of the US, Daniel Farke's side have beaten Bundesliga outfits RB Leipzig and FC Augsburg at Elland Road, as well as drawing with rivals Manchester United at Dublin's Croke Park.
#united #manchester #last #leeds
Last term, the Whites impressed on the return to the top-flight with an outstanding 47 points haul, finishing in 14th place and reaching the Emirates FA Cup semi-finals!
Across the summer, it has been all systems go behind the scenes with United securing the signatures of four very exciting new additions, beginning with Wales international Harry Wilson who joins the club after a stellar season last time out with Fulham that saw him crowned Player of the Year at Craven Cottage.
Then, commanding central defender Tarik Muharemović arrived from Sassuolo before England international James Trafford made the switch on a club-record deal from Manchester City. Further experience was added at the back through Borussia Mönchengladbach's Nico Elvedi.
After an enjoyable tour of the US, Daniel Farke's side have beaten Bundesliga outfits RB Leipzig and FC Augsburg at Elland Road, as well as drawing with rivals Manchester United at Dublin's Croke Park.
#united #manchester #last #leeds
2 months ago
Leeds United will lock horns with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground this Saturday as they hope to secure maximum points on the road in the Premier League. The Whites managed to earn a dominant 4-0 win over Augsburg in a pre-season friendly match recently, which should give them some confidence going into this game.
Daniel Farke will set his team in a 3-4-3 formation and is expected to name a strong first team for this clash. Dominic Calvert-Lewin will get the nod to spearhead Leeds United's attack up top.
James Trafford will feature in goal for the Whites as he looks to secure a clean sheet at the City Ground this weekend. Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol and Tarik Muharemović will make up Leeds' back three. All three of them would have to maintain a good defensive shape at the back if they want to keep the Nottingham attackers frustrated during the 90 minutes.
Sebastiaan Bornauw will provide cover for the defensive positions on the bench.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – AUGUST 08: Harry Wilson of Leeds United looks on during the during the pre-season friendly match between Leeds United and RB Leipzig at Elland Road on August 08, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
#leeds #city
Daniel Farke will set his team in a 3-4-3 formation and is expected to name a strong first team for this clash. Dominic Calvert-Lewin will get the nod to spearhead Leeds United's attack up top.
James Trafford will feature in goal for the Whites as he looks to secure a clean sheet at the City Ground this weekend. Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol and Tarik Muharemović will make up Leeds' back three. All three of them would have to maintain a good defensive shape at the back if they want to keep the Nottingham attackers frustrated during the 90 minutes.
Sebastiaan Bornauw will provide cover for the defensive positions on the bench.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – AUGUST 08: Harry Wilson of Leeds United looks on during the during the pre-season friendly match between Leeds United and RB Leipzig at Elland Road on August 08, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
#leeds #city
2 months ago
Philipp Max decided to end his professional career at the age of 32 due to fitness issues. The three-time Germany international was without a club since leaving Gamba Osaka in March. The former Eintracht Frankfurt and Augsburg defender ended his time in ******* an after no appearances in his only six weeks at the club.
The set-piece specialist scored 16 goals in 180 Bundesliga appearances. He spent time with FC Bayern and Schalke youth teams, but it was at Augsburg he first made a name for himself as a Bundesliga regular.
He then played in Eredivisie for three seasons after joining PSV in 2020 for €10 million. Eintracht Frankfurt returned him and Mario Götze to Bundesliga, but his spell at the traditional club was unsuccessful.
Max played his last professional game during the 2024/25 season for Greek side Panathinaikos. The left-back was part of Germany's squad that won silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
#frankfurt
The set-piece specialist scored 16 goals in 180 Bundesliga appearances. He spent time with FC Bayern and Schalke youth teams, but it was at Augsburg he first made a name for himself as a Bundesliga regular.
He then played in Eredivisie for three seasons after joining PSV in 2020 for €10 million. Eintracht Frankfurt returned him and Mario Götze to Bundesliga, but his spell at the traditional club was unsuccessful.
Max played his last professional game during the 2024/25 season for Greek side Panathinaikos. The left-back was part of Germany's squad that won silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
#frankfurt
2 months ago
Former Germany international Philipp Max has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a career that included 180 Bundesliga appearances, spells in the Netherlands, Greece and ***** an, and three senior caps for his country. Max confirmed the decision in an emotional Instagram post on Sunday. The former Schalke, Augsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt defender had been without a club since leaving ***** anese side Gamba Osaka earlier this year.
"A chapter is coming to an end," Max wrote. "I'm obviously sad that you leave behind something you lived for and worked towards your entire life. I came to the conclusion relatively quickly that the best thing is to hang up my boots now."
Max made his Bundesliga debut with Schalke during the 2013/14 campaign before eventually establishing himself at Augsburg. It was in Bavaria that the left-back became a recognizable Bundesliga figure. Max made 145 top-flight appearances for FCA and developed a reputation as an unusually attack-minded defender, capable of advancing aggressively down the flank and contributing through crosses, set pieces and direct involvement in the final third.
His importance to Augsburg became particularly obvious when he departed for PSV Eindhoven in 2020. Max had developed into such an important part of the club's attacking structure that his exit represented a major tactical loss ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign. The move abroad also coincided with the high point of his international career.
Max earned his first Germany cap in November 2020 and immediately contributed an ***** ist in a 1-0 friendly victory over the Czech Republic. Joachim Löw deployed him as an advanced wing-back, a role that suited the attacking qualities he had demonstrated throughout his Bundesliga career. He ultimately collected three senior international appearances in 2020.
#bundesliga #former #senior
"A chapter is coming to an end," Max wrote. "I'm obviously sad that you leave behind something you lived for and worked towards your entire life. I came to the conclusion relatively quickly that the best thing is to hang up my boots now."
Max made his Bundesliga debut with Schalke during the 2013/14 campaign before eventually establishing himself at Augsburg. It was in Bavaria that the left-back became a recognizable Bundesliga figure. Max made 145 top-flight appearances for FCA and developed a reputation as an unusually attack-minded defender, capable of advancing aggressively down the flank and contributing through crosses, set pieces and direct involvement in the final third.
His importance to Augsburg became particularly obvious when he departed for PSV Eindhoven in 2020. Max had developed into such an important part of the club's attacking structure that his exit represented a major tactical loss ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign. The move abroad also coincided with the high point of his international career.
Max earned his first Germany cap in November 2020 and immediately contributed an ***** ist in a 1-0 friendly victory over the Czech Republic. Joachim Löw deployed him as an advanced wing-back, a role that suited the attacking qualities he had demonstrated throughout his Bundesliga career. He ultimately collected three senior international appearances in 2020.
#bundesliga #former #senior
2 months ago
Leeds United have agreed an £8.5m deal to sign Swiss defender Nico Elvedi.
The 29-year-old is travelling to England for a medical on Monday after Borussia Monchengladbach accepted an offer worth an initial £6.8m, with a further £1.7m in add-ons.
The versatile Switzerland international is set to end his 11-year stay with the German top-flight club by moving to Elland Road.
Elvedi is a highly experienced addition, having earned 73 caps for his country and featured as part of Switzerland's squad at this summer's World Cup.
Asked about the deal after a 4-0 pre-season win over Augsburg, Leeds manager Daniel Farke said: "I've been working in football long enough to know everything is only final once the medical checks are completed and all the paperwork is signed. We've seen situations like this before.
#medical #united #swiss #nico
The 29-year-old is travelling to England for a medical on Monday after Borussia Monchengladbach accepted an offer worth an initial £6.8m, with a further £1.7m in add-ons.
The versatile Switzerland international is set to end his 11-year stay with the German top-flight club by moving to Elland Road.
Elvedi is a highly experienced addition, having earned 73 caps for his country and featured as part of Switzerland's squad at this summer's World Cup.
Asked about the deal after a 4-0 pre-season win over Augsburg, Leeds manager Daniel Farke said: "I've been working in football long enough to know everything is only final once the medical checks are completed and all the paperwork is signed. We've seen situations like this before.
#medical #united #swiss #nico
2 months ago
West Ham have signed Belgium international midfielder Arne Engels from Scottish champions Celtic for a club-record Championship fee of £22 million.
The 22-year-old has agreed a five-year contract, with West Ham holding an option for a further year. The deal surpasses the previous EFL Championship transfer record of £17.5 million, paid by Ipswich Town for Norway forward Sindre Walle Egeli last year.
Engels made exactly 100 appearances for Celtic, scoring 17 goals and providing 23 **** ists. During his two seasons in Scotland, he won back-to-back Premiership **** les and recorded 39 direct goal involvements.
A creative midfielder and set-piece specialist, Engels began his career at Club Brugge before spending 18 months with German Bundesliga side Augsburg. He has also earned four caps for Belgium.
His arrival is West Ham's fourth signing of the summer, following Keiber Lamadrid, Joel Veltman and Manor Solomon.
#engels #Belgium
The 22-year-old has agreed a five-year contract, with West Ham holding an option for a further year. The deal surpasses the previous EFL Championship transfer record of £17.5 million, paid by Ipswich Town for Norway forward Sindre Walle Egeli last year.
Engels made exactly 100 appearances for Celtic, scoring 17 goals and providing 23 **** ists. During his two seasons in Scotland, he won back-to-back Premiership **** les and recorded 39 direct goal involvements.
A creative midfielder and set-piece specialist, Engels began his career at Club Brugge before spending 18 months with German Bundesliga side Augsburg. He has also earned four caps for Belgium.
His arrival is West Ham's fourth signing of the summer, following Keiber Lamadrid, Joel Veltman and Manor Solomon.
#engels #Belgium
2 months ago
Despite Leeds United cruising past FC Augsburg 4-0 at Elland Road, manager Daniel Farke believes his side can still improve as the pre-season calendar drew to a close.
Goals from Anton Stach, Tarik Muharemović, James Justin and Lukas Nmecha sealed the victory and while the boss was impressed with parts of what he had seen, he explained the real work starts next week with the Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest.
"We can play better," the German told LUTV. "First half, in many situations, also a bit untidy and not precise on the ball. We definitely can play better football and have done this also during this pre-season.
"But overall, it is the fifth week of pre-season. You could feel we had many inputs also during this week. We had a long day with traveling, coming back late. The next day, straight away training session with tactical sessions, meetings, anyhow.
"And for that, we were not really fresh, sharp and flawless today. But nevertheless, we were there against normally a really good Bundesliga side.
#week #better #really
Goals from Anton Stach, Tarik Muharemović, James Justin and Lukas Nmecha sealed the victory and while the boss was impressed with parts of what he had seen, he explained the real work starts next week with the Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest.
"We can play better," the German told LUTV. "First half, in many situations, also a bit untidy and not precise on the ball. We definitely can play better football and have done this also during this pre-season.
"But overall, it is the fifth week of pre-season. You could feel we had many inputs also during this week. We had a long day with traveling, coming back late. The next day, straight away training session with tactical sessions, meetings, anyhow.
"And for that, we were not really fresh, sharp and flawless today. But nevertheless, we were there against normally a really good Bundesliga side.
#week #better #really
2 months ago
Netting a sublime first goal for the club in Leeds United's emphatic 4-0 victory over FC Augsburg was defender Tarik Muharemović, acrobatically lashing a powerful overhead kick into the back of the net as the Whites rounded off their pre-season campaign in style.
With the Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest just around the corner, goals elsewhere from Anton Stach, James Justin and Lukas Nmecha helped the Whites to the win in what was an important outing at Elland Road.
"I don't even know!" the 6ft 4' defender laughed, discussing the audacious effort. "I just jumped. I just tried. Thank God it went how it went! First goal at home, a special moment.
"But at the end of the day, I am really happy how we finished the pre-season. I am really happy how the whole team played and how we fought. We showed our qualities and that is how we want to start the new season."
Since joining the club from Sassuolo, Muharemović has impressed in his first outings in white and he heaped praise on his teammates for helping him settle in so quickly.
#season #whites #club #defender
With the Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest just around the corner, goals elsewhere from Anton Stach, James Justin and Lukas Nmecha helped the Whites to the win in what was an important outing at Elland Road.
"I don't even know!" the 6ft 4' defender laughed, discussing the audacious effort. "I just jumped. I just tried. Thank God it went how it went! First goal at home, a special moment.
"But at the end of the day, I am really happy how we finished the pre-season. I am really happy how the whole team played and how we fought. We showed our qualities and that is how we want to start the new season."
Since joining the club from Sassuolo, Muharemović has impressed in his first outings in white and he heaped praise on his teammates for helping him settle in so quickly.
#season #whites #club #defender
2 months ago
SC Paderborn are reportedly closing in on the signing of former Bayern Munich attacking prospect Gabriel Vidovic from Dinamo Zagreb. According to Croatian outlet Sportske Novosti, Paderborn are prepared to pay approximately €3m for the 22-year-old. Sky Germany – as relayed by transfermarkt.de – has subsequently confirmed the Bundesliga newcomers' pursuit.
Vidovic only completed a permanent departure from Bayern last summer. The Augsburg-born Croatia youth international joined Dinamo for around €1.2m after previously spending three separate spells away from the German record champions on loan.
His future had initially appeared less certain. Get German Football News reported in June 2025 that Heidenheim were attempting to acquire Vidovic, with the Ostalb club willing to consider either a loan or permanent transfer.
Only three days later, however, GGFN reported that Heidenheim had missed out as Vidovic instead moved towards a permanent switch to Dinamo Zagreb.
The Croatian attacker has since registered seven goals and five **** ists for Dinamo. His current market value stands at approximately €3m after previously reaching €3.5m during an earlier loan spell with the Zagreb club.
#vidovic #dinamo #zagreb #croatian
Vidovic only completed a permanent departure from Bayern last summer. The Augsburg-born Croatia youth international joined Dinamo for around €1.2m after previously spending three separate spells away from the German record champions on loan.
His future had initially appeared less certain. Get German Football News reported in June 2025 that Heidenheim were attempting to acquire Vidovic, with the Ostalb club willing to consider either a loan or permanent transfer.
Only three days later, however, GGFN reported that Heidenheim had missed out as Vidovic instead moved towards a permanent switch to Dinamo Zagreb.
The Croatian attacker has since registered seven goals and five **** ists for Dinamo. His current market value stands at approximately €3m after previously reaching €3.5m during an earlier loan spell with the Zagreb club.
#vidovic #dinamo #zagreb #croatian
3 months ago
Hull City transfer target Mert Kömür did not suffer a serious injury in FC Augsburg's 5-2 friendly defeat to AFC Bournemouth.
After Thursday's game, head coach Manuel Baum confirmed this at the start of the training camp in Achenkirch, Austria.
However, the Augsburger Allegemine believes Augsburg may still have to do without Kömür in their upcoming training sessions.
"It's nothing structural, but it's painful," Baum explained, according to the Augsburger Allgemeine, regarding Kömür.
The 21-year-old had reportedly already gone into the friendly with a slightly injured ankle having taken a knock beforehand.
#friendly
After Thursday's game, head coach Manuel Baum confirmed this at the start of the training camp in Achenkirch, Austria.
However, the Augsburger Allegemine believes Augsburg may still have to do without Kömür in their upcoming training sessions.
"It's nothing structural, but it's painful," Baum explained, according to the Augsburger Allgemeine, regarding Kömür.
The 21-year-old had reportedly already gone into the friendly with a slightly injured ankle having taken a knock beforehand.
#friendly
3 months ago
Sky Germany reports that FC Augsburg attacker Mert Kömür is open to moving to England amid increasing interest from Hull City. Hull's pursuit of the 21-year-old Germany U21 international first emerged earlier this week. The Premier League club have now reportedly opened discussions with Kömür, his family, and his representatives over a potential summer transfer out of the Bundesliga.
Augsburg have been informed of the talks and are fundamentally willing to sanction Kömür's departure. A transfer fee of approximately €20 million is presently being discussed, though Hull have not yet opened formal negotiations with the Bundesliga club.
Kömür remains under contract through 2029 after receiving a new long-term Augsburg deal last summer. The Dachau native registered two goals and five ***** ists in 28 Bundesliga appearances last season, starting 18 league fixtures. His flexibility enables him to operate as an attacking midfielder, on the right, behind a central striker or as a false nine.
Several impressive tours of duty with Germany's U21s have also strengthened Kömür's standing as a potential future senior international. Augsburg's willingness to discuss his departure does not necessarily mean that Hull will be able to negotiate a reduced fee.
The Fuggerstädter recently demonstrated their readiness to reject an attractive package when they broke off talks with Crystal Palace over Chrislain Matsima. Palace had raised their proposed package for the French defender to approximately €25 million, with the total value potentially reaching €30 million.
#million #international
Augsburg have been informed of the talks and are fundamentally willing to sanction Kömür's departure. A transfer fee of approximately €20 million is presently being discussed, though Hull have not yet opened formal negotiations with the Bundesliga club.
Kömür remains under contract through 2029 after receiving a new long-term Augsburg deal last summer. The Dachau native registered two goals and five ***** ists in 28 Bundesliga appearances last season, starting 18 league fixtures. His flexibility enables him to operate as an attacking midfielder, on the right, behind a central striker or as a false nine.
Several impressive tours of duty with Germany's U21s have also strengthened Kömür's standing as a potential future senior international. Augsburg's willingness to discuss his departure does not necessarily mean that Hull will be able to negotiate a reduced fee.
The Fuggerstädter recently demonstrated their readiness to reject an attractive package when they broke off talks with Crystal Palace over Chrislain Matsima. Palace had raised their proposed package for the French defender to approximately €25 million, with the total value potentially reaching €30 million.
#million #international
3 months ago
Florian Plettenberg reports that Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima's move to Palace has collapsed. The two sides failed to reach an agreement on the final contractual details despite discussing a total package worth as much as €30 million. Matsima will be remaining in the Bundesliga for now.
The proposed deal reportedly collapsed because Augsburg and Palace remained apart on the structure of the payments and performance-related bonuses. Matsima and his representatives have already been informed that the move will not proceed.
The 24-year-old will now return to first-team duties and travel with Augsburg to their training camp on Saturday. Sky notes that Matsima behaved professionally throughout the negotiations.
Palace initially reached personal terms with Matsima before raising an earlier €20 million bid to €25 million. Augsburg nevertheless remained determined to secure the major profit long anticipated for the defender, whom they purchased permanently from Monaco for approximately €5 million.
Matsima developed into one of Augsburg's most important defensive players and later signed a contract extension through 2030. A serious thigh injury in January interrupted his progress, though he returned during the closing stages of last season.
#million #collapsed #remained
The proposed deal reportedly collapsed because Augsburg and Palace remained apart on the structure of the payments and performance-related bonuses. Matsima and his representatives have already been informed that the move will not proceed.
The 24-year-old will now return to first-team duties and travel with Augsburg to their training camp on Saturday. Sky notes that Matsima behaved professionally throughout the negotiations.
Palace initially reached personal terms with Matsima before raising an earlier €20 million bid to €25 million. Augsburg nevertheless remained determined to secure the major profit long anticipated for the defender, whom they purchased permanently from Monaco for approximately €5 million.
Matsima developed into one of Augsburg's most important defensive players and later signed a contract extension through 2030. A serious thigh injury in January interrupted his progress, though he returned during the closing stages of last season.
#million #collapsed #remained
3 months ago
FC Augsburg have immediately rejected a €20million offer from Crystal Palace for Chrislain Matsima this morning.
Matsima, once linked with Bayern Munich, has already reached a full agreement with Palace over an immediate move.
The 24-year-old is still eager to make the switch to the English Premier League and sign a contract with the London club.
Should an agreement be reached, the centre-half would replace ex-Wolfsburg star Maxence Lacroix, who is joining Chelsea.
Such is the French defender's desire to join Palace this summer, Augsburg are expecting an improved offer to arrive today.
#offer #reached #agreement #chrislain
Matsima, once linked with Bayern Munich, has already reached a full agreement with Palace over an immediate move.
The 24-year-old is still eager to make the switch to the English Premier League and sign a contract with the London club.
Should an agreement be reached, the centre-half would replace ex-Wolfsburg star Maxence Lacroix, who is joining Chelsea.
Such is the French defender's desire to join Palace this summer, Augsburg are expecting an improved offer to arrive today.
#offer #reached #agreement #chrislain
3 months ago
Hennes Behrens is transferring from TSG Hoffenheim to fellow Bundesliga side FC Augsburg, both clubs have confirmed.
The talented left-back has put pen to paper on a contract with the Fuggerstädter club which is set to run until 2031.
The 21-year-old impressed greatly during the second half of last season while on loan at 1.FC Heidenheim who were ultimately relegated.
It's believed the transfer fee paid by the Bavarians will be in the region of €3.5million, with a further €1million in bonuses.
“We are delighted that Hennes will continue his journey at FC Augsburg.
The talented left-back has put pen to paper on a contract with the Fuggerstädter club which is set to run until 2031.
The 21-year-old impressed greatly during the second half of last season while on loan at 1.FC Heidenheim who were ultimately relegated.
It's believed the transfer fee paid by the Bavarians will be in the region of €3.5million, with a further €1million in bonuses.
“We are delighted that Hennes will continue his journey at FC Augsburg.
3 months ago
FC Augsburg and Germany U21 attacker Mert Kömür has reportedly attracted interest from Galatasaray.
According to Turkish outlet Sporx, the Istanbul club have submitted an initial offer for the 20-year-old.
FC Porto, Eintracht Frankfurt, RB Leipzig and Club Brugge have previously been linked with a move for Kömür, who is under contract with Augsburg until 2029.
Bulinews.com recently asked Augsburg sporting director Benjamin Weber about the futures of Kömür and Alexis Claude-Maurice, who has also been linked with a move away from the WWK Arena.
"First of all, we are pretty happy that other clubs or people are talking about our players, because that means we have a stage to develop not only youth players, but also players like Alexis, who came to us at an older age. This means other high-potential talents would like to join FC Augsburg because they know we can write a story and develop together," Weber told Bulinews.com in an exclusive interview, adding:
According to Turkish outlet Sporx, the Istanbul club have submitted an initial offer for the 20-year-old.
FC Porto, Eintracht Frankfurt, RB Leipzig and Club Brugge have previously been linked with a move for Kömür, who is under contract with Augsburg until 2029.
Bulinews.com recently asked Augsburg sporting director Benjamin Weber about the futures of Kömür and Alexis Claude-Maurice, who has also been linked with a move away from the WWK Arena.
"First of all, we are pretty happy that other clubs or people are talking about our players, because that means we have a stage to develop not only youth players, but also players like Alexis, who came to us at an older age. This means other high-potential talents would like to join FC Augsburg because they know we can write a story and develop together," Weber told Bulinews.com in an exclusive interview, adding:
4 months ago
Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel won “Superior Player of the Match” as Switzerland advanced to the quarter-final with a penalty shootout win over Colombia. Murat Yakin's side will face holders Argentina in Switzerland's first appearance in the last eight since their home tournament in 1954.
Although chances were far and few between, both sides had decent opportunities to win the hard-fought encounter before it went into penalties. In particular, Kobel shone with his athleticism keeping Luis Díaz and Colombia scoreless for 120 minutes.
Yann Sommer's long-time understudy also made a crucial stop from Cucho Hernandez in the shootout after Davinson Sanchez and his former BVB teammate Manuel Akanji failed to hit their targets. Ex-Augsburg winger Ruben Vargas scored the final kick to send Switzerland through to the next round.
Colombia have only conceded one goal, which was in the 3-1 victory over pointless Uzbekistan, but their tournament is now coming to a close. Néstor Lorenzo’s side are the only ones to play games at the stadiums of all three host countries.
The quarter-final will commence on Thursday as the tournament takes a one-day break for the first time since the opening fixture last month. Six of the teams left in the competition are from Europe, with Morocco and holders Argentina the exceptions. Switzerland will hope SC Freiburg's Johan Manzambi recovers in time for the game against the defending champions.
Although chances were far and few between, both sides had decent opportunities to win the hard-fought encounter before it went into penalties. In particular, Kobel shone with his athleticism keeping Luis Díaz and Colombia scoreless for 120 minutes.
Yann Sommer's long-time understudy also made a crucial stop from Cucho Hernandez in the shootout after Davinson Sanchez and his former BVB teammate Manuel Akanji failed to hit their targets. Ex-Augsburg winger Ruben Vargas scored the final kick to send Switzerland through to the next round.
Colombia have only conceded one goal, which was in the 3-1 victory over pointless Uzbekistan, but their tournament is now coming to a close. Néstor Lorenzo’s side are the only ones to play games at the stadiums of all three host countries.
The quarter-final will commence on Thursday as the tournament takes a one-day break for the first time since the opening fixture last month. Six of the teams left in the competition are from Europe, with Morocco and holders Argentina the exceptions. Switzerland will hope SC Freiburg's Johan Manzambi recovers in time for the game against the defending champions.
4 months ago
Invited by the German Football League (DFL), FC Augsburg sporting director Benjamin Weber is currently visiting World Cup co-host the United States on an inspirational networking trip.
Logically, Weber will also be keeping an eye on the matches, but says he is “not really” using the tournament to scout players.
“The market is so obvious, and there are many, many clubs queuing up for the biggest players on a stage where the whole world can see them,” Weber said in an exclusive interview with Bulinews.com.
“Sure, we scout, but what’s really interesting is to see the mentality and playing style of the different teams and countries. It gives you a different perspective on the game, and there are many things you can learn and take back to the club.”
Even if Augsburg are not actively looking to recruit players at the World Cup, Weber says the tournament still has a significant impact on the club’s transfer planning.
Logically, Weber will also be keeping an eye on the matches, but says he is “not really” using the tournament to scout players.
“The market is so obvious, and there are many, many clubs queuing up for the biggest players on a stage where the whole world can see them,” Weber said in an exclusive interview with Bulinews.com.
“Sure, we scout, but what’s really interesting is to see the mentality and playing style of the different teams and countries. It gives you a different perspective on the game, and there are many things you can learn and take back to the club.”
Even if Augsburg are not actively looking to recruit players at the World Cup, Weber says the tournament still has a significant impact on the club’s transfer planning.
