Preparations escalate in Friedrichsfeld SV 08/29 - "Forced Entry Required"
Take a peek at Friedrichsfelder's season wrap-up and plans for resurgence through thrilling new signings
Got that seasonal off-load feeling? "It's time to move on from the season now." This statement doesn't necessarily suggest that the recently concluded season for SV 08/29 Friedrichsfeld under the guidance of coach Almir Duric should've been prolonged. The season didn't pan out as they'd hoped for. The team settled for seventh place, falling short of their target by two spots, and their coach can't praise the season highly: "We didn't improve tactically and often lost games recklessly or concededsoft goals."
Coach Duric's Season Review
Defensively, the team didn't give Duric and the fans much to cheer about. Across the 34 games, they conceded 89 goals, placing them as the league's sixth-weakest defense in the Bezirksliga. On the other hand, they scored 87 goals, positioning them fifth in the league rankings. "We didn't analyze our conceded goals and sometimes we just had to resort to playing dirty," says Duric, summing up the season: "We could beat anyone, but we could also lose to anyone." Defenses woes were characterized by inconsistency, and recurring injuries in the backline made a cohesive defense hard to accomplish. And up front? The fans who were loyal enough to brave the elements often witnessed a solo performance. Eray Tuncel scored 28 league goals and will continue to be a key player for Duric going forward.
But Tuncel will be joined by one or two new faces next season. Coach Duric has announced two more new signings: "We're aiming for stability and have decided to bring in some fresh blood." The signing of Furkan Cagimni (U19, VfL Rhede) to Tannenbusch is completed, and Gianluca Buhlmann, with experience in the Landesliga and joining from DJK Lösort Meiderich in the Kreisliga A, will strengthen the midfield. "We're getting a creative midfielder who's very intriguing for us," reflects Duric, who fought hard to acquire the 23-year-old's services: "This was a genuine battle, so we're relieved now."
Talent and Experience: Friedrichsfelder Bolsters Up
Buhlmann won't be the last new addition to the Friedrichsfelder squad. The defense, a problem area for the team, is set to welcom Joel Grzeskowiak. The 29-year-old is coming from Bezirksligist GSG Duisburg and gives Duric high hopes: "I've known Joel personally, and I'm confident he'll make a huge impact." Grzeskowiak has league experience and even spent some time in the Landesliga. The latest addition to the Friedrichsfelder roster is a goalkeeper. With Florian Albri's retirement, the "United" have signed Lukas Botor from Eintracht Walsum. The 25-year-old is expected to bolster the goalkeeper trio of Noah Heutger and Ledian Saiti and has already impressed in the tryout sessions: "Lukas convinced me and our goalkeeper coach Flo Albri, and he adds a strong presence to our goalkeeper squad."
Has the summer transfer window closed for "United"? Duric leaves room for negotiation: "We're still in talks with one or two players. Maybe we'll add a striker and a defender. We may also have internal reinforcements." Internal reinforcements: The coach is referring to three players from their own ranks who were sidelined by injuries last season. The anticipated return of Nico Maas, Maximilian Spartz, and Nick Gerritzen is something Duric eagerly anticipates: "I'm looking forward to it, as these guys didn't have much playing time last season. That fills out our team nicely."
Three more players depart from SV 08/29
However, the Friedrichsfelder team also has departures in the offing. In addition to Marek Heuser, Anton Kötter, and Bünyamin Özdemir, Paul Fengels, Islam Kaloshi, and Daniel Viktor Weiz are also leaving the club. "Their departures have nothing to do with performance, but the players aren't getting the minutes they deserve, so we've agreed to part ways," says Duric, adding: "We wish the guys all the best, both personally and professionally. Who knows, we might cross paths again in the future."
"We hope we've made the right decisions and will give it our all come the new season."
On June 30, the team from Tannenbusch will assemble for the first post-season training session, having earlier said their goodbyes to the previous season with a barbecue and welcoming the new one. But first, it's time for a 14-day break: "We all need a rest now," says Duric, who remains optimistic about the upcoming season: "We hope we've made the right decisions and will give it our best after the break. Everyone is excited and eager to show what they can do and contribute."
"With the new signings, we're looking forward to improving our performance in the upcoming season, especially in football, a sport that we will focus on for our resurgence."
"Coach Duric has announced the signing of Furkan Cagimni from VfL Rhede and Gianluca Buhlmann from DJK Lösort Meiderich to bolster our midfield, aiming to add creativity and stability to our team."
