Is the size of the FCA team excessive?
FC Augsburg is gearing up for the 2025/26 season with a focus on optimising their squad distribution and making significant changes, as hinted by Sporting Director Benjamin Weber at his introductory press conference.
Midfield
Arne Maier, a key hardworking midfielder, is highlighted for his contributions. However, the departure of Henri Koudossou, who can operate as a full-back and in midfield roles, to 1.FC Nürnberg on loan for the season, has reduced midfield and full-back depth within Augsburg. Discussions about midfield distribution mention Mayenda, a player known for his quality passes, being integrated into the squad, indicating a creative midfield presence. Elias Saad, Kyliane Dong, Arne Maier, and Mahmut Küçükşahin are waiting for their chances to shine in midfield. Mert Kömür is likely to initially be trusted alongside Alexis Claude-Maurice in midfield, with the competition being greatest in this area.
Defense
The club has loaned out Henri Koudossou (full-back) for the season, which reduces wing-back options. Transfer rumours suggest a possible new centre-back signing is imminent, indicating Augsburg is reinforcing its defensive options. A defensive formation of 5-4-1 with players like Xhaka, Seelt, and Ballard dropping back has been observed in match play. Keven Schlotterbeck, Noahkai Banks, and Maximilian Bauer may only be left with the bench in defense. Alexis Claude-Maurice is expected to remain a solid pillar in midfield.
Forward
Ermedin Demirović is recognised as a versatile forward with a goal-scoring threat and is vital to Augsburg's attack. The team seems to rely heavily on players like Demirović up front, with some ongoing concerns about finishing among younger forwards such as Mayenda.
Goalkeeper
There are positive reports on Augsburg’s new goalkeeper, who is praised for his calmness on the ball, composure under pressure, and excellent distribution skills. The new keeper is gaining confidence and backing as the likely first choice. However, there are rumours that Nediljko Labrovic may not be content with being the number two goalkeeper in the long term, potentially leading to a transfer before August 31st.
Transfer Plans Summary
Augsburg has loaned Henri Koudossou out but extended his contract until 2028, showing long-term interest in the player. A new centre-back signing is rumoured imminent to bolster defense. The squad is actively being built up to balance youth and experience, as evidenced by the integration of players like Mayenda and the loaning out of fringe players for development. The goalkeeper position could see movement before August 31st, with a transfer for Nediljko Labrovic not ruled out due to his desire to remain relevant for the Croatian national team.
In sum, the club is working on strengthening its defense with a new centre-back while promoting young talents in midfield and forward positions. The goalkeeper position seems solid with a promising new signing starting in goal. Loaning out Koudossou indicates some reshuffling in full-back/midfield roles, likely to ensure playing time for developing players. This suggests Augsburg aims to maintain a competitive and flexible squad dynamic for the 2025/26 season. The transfer window remains open until August 31st.
Sports enthusiasts looking forward to the 2025/26 European-leagues season should keep a close eye on FC Augsburg as they strategically reinforce their squad. Defensive shifts may be notable due to potential new centre-back signings, while creative midfield presences like Mayenda are expected to be integrated. The forward line will continue to rely on Ermedin Demirović's goals, and the goalkeeper position seems promising with a new signing showing exceptional skills. However, transfer plans might not be finalized until the August 31st deadline, especially concerning goalkeeper Nediljko Labrovic's potential move due to his desire for national team relevance.
