Team left following a disappointing result during training exercises - "Training camp welcomes test-patcher followed by new club"
In a significant move ahead of the upcoming 2. Bundesliga season, Georgian national player Luka Lochoshvili has signed for FC Nuremberg. The defender, who is known for his left-footed prowess, has joined the promoted side on a multi-year contract.
Lochoshvili, aged 25, comes to Nuremberg from Italian club US Cremonese, where he played in Serie A. Before his stint in Italy, he had spells in Austria, Slovakia, and Ukraine, having begun his career with Dynamo Kyiv.
Coach Miroslav Klose is set to deploy Lochoshvili as part of a new three-man central defence, alongside captain Robin Knoche and Fabio Gruber. The coach has highlighted Lochoshvili's physicality, footballing qualities, and mental approach as major assets for the team.
The sporting director, Joti Chatzialexiou, has praised the new signing's experience and mentality, calling him "an absolute gain" for the squad who will lead both on and off the pitch. The addition of Lochoshvili fits into Nuremberg's plans to strengthen their defence as they prepare for a competitive 2. Bundesliga campaign.
Meanwhile, the team is currently in Gais for their pre-season training, having recently played a friendly match against fellow Bundesliga side 1. FC Schweinfurt. Jakob Tranziska and Joshua Endres scored for the promoted side, while Artem Stepanow netted the only goal for FC Nuremberg, resulting in a 1:2 loss for the latter.
Lochoshvili is expected to undergo fitness tests in Nuremberg on Monday morning, following his arrival. The details about the duration of his contract with FC Nuremberg have not been disclosed.
Two more preparation matches are planned for FC Nuremberg against Arminia Bielefeld (19 July) and Borussia Mönchengladbach (26 July). The 2. Bundesliga will begin away for FC Nuremberg in Elversberg on 2 August.
[1] Transfermarkt. (2025). Luka Lochoshvili. [online] Available at: https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/luka-lochoshvili/profil/spieler/397025
[2] Goal.com. (2025). Luka Lochoshvili joins FC Nuremberg from US Cremonese. [online] Available at: https://www.goal.com/en/news/luka-lochoshvili-joins-fc-nuremberg-from-us-cremonese/blt13d3616c76431a9d
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