Troubled Beginnings for Herth in the New Season
Hertha BSC, a prominent German football club, is gearing up for the upcoming 2025/26 2. Bundesliga season, set to commence on August 1, 2025, against Schalke 04. This highly anticipated fixture marks a significant encounter between two clubs that have frequently moved between the top two tiers.
Preparations for the upcoming season are in full swing, with the club likely engaging in pre-season friendlies and intensive training camps to build fitness and tactical readiness. Coach Stefan Leitl, at the helm, has emphasised the importance of the team achieving its physical capacity, as they aim to use these test matches to prepare for the league start.
One of the key developments for Hertha is the near completion of the recruitment of experienced midfielder Paul Seguin from Schalke 04. The club has offered him a contract until 2027, with an option to extend for another year, indicating their intention to make Seguin a cornerstone of the team as they push for promotion. Seguin, who contributed 2 goals and 5 assists in 25 appearances last season in 2. Bundesliga, is expected to be a valuable addition to the squad.
In addition to on-field plans, Hertha BSC has started a new long-term partnership for their kit supply with British premium brand Castore, effective from the 2025/26 season. This strategic shift from their 26-year relationship with Nike aims to align with a brand focused on performance, innovation, and growth, supporting Hertha’s broader ambition to enhance their identity and performance levels.
In a test match against Ludwigsfelder FC, Hertha showcased their fitness focus, with the match's outcome taking a back seat. New signing Sebastian Groening missed several big chances in the first half, while Leon Jensen and Fabian Reese scored goals during the match. John-Anthony Brooks made his debut for the new season after recovering from an injury. Despite the 3:0 win, Coach Leitl highlighted that Hertha's problem remains converting chances.
The children's participation in the match was a highlight for the little Hertha fans, with the players running a few extra laps, including a final lap where children from the sidelines joined. The focus of the match was on the team's fitness rather than the score, as Leitl's clear task for the team is to win games, ideally without conceding, and to make the most of their scoring chances. As Hertha continues their preparations, the club's commitment to competing effectively in the upcoming season and aiming for promotion back to the Bundesliga is evident.
The preparations for the 2025/26 season extend beyond training camps and friendlies, as Hertha BSC also looks towards European leagues, aiming to compete at the highest level. Coach Stefan Leitl's tactical vision includes integrating newly signed midfielder Paul Seguin, a former Schalke 04 player, whose experience and skills could significantly boost their chances in the 2. Bundesliga. Additionally, the club's new partnership with Castore for kit supply is part of a broader ambition to enhance performance levels and align with a brand focused on innovation and growth.
