Schuster sympathizes with Rosenfelder: 'Not easy on the mind' - Freiburg's defensive crisis deepens with two more muscle injuries ahead of cup semifinal
SC Freiburg faces a growing defensive crisis ahead of their DFB-Pokal semifinal against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Two key defenders, Max Rosenfelder and Philipp Lienhart, are sidelined with muscular injuries, leaving the team short of options at the back. Coach Julian Schuster has called Rosenfelder's latest setback 'bitter' after his recent return from a long-term muscle strain.
Rosenfelder suffered a muscle strain in his right hamstring during Freiburg's match against TSG Hoffenheim. The problem marks another blow for the 26-year-old, who only recently recovered from a thigh muscle tear sustained in December. Schuster refused to give a clear return date, stressing the need for patience in his rehabilitation.
The defensive issues do not end there. Lienhart remains out with an abdominal muscle injury and is training individually. Lukas Kübler is also unavailable, further thinning Freiburg's backline. With experienced players missing, youngster Bruno Ogbus, aged 20, is expected to start again in defence.
Freiburg will now rely on inexperienced options for a crucial cup tie. Rosenfelder's absence adds to the team's muscular system struggles, while Schuster's cautious approach suggests no quick fixes. The semifinal clash with Mönchengladbach will test the depth of a side already stretched by injuries.
