Union Berlin's Bundesliga crew might be cutting their Christmas break brief, according to coach Nenad Bjelica. He's pondering a return on December 28, an idea initially proposed by his predecessor, Urs Fischer. The decision depends on their upcoming Bundesliga fixtures.
A pre-January 2 test match opponent remains elusive. Once they tackle Köln on December 28 (18:30/Sky), the players can jet off on vacation. Bjelica himself yearns for a family Christmas in Klagenfurt.
Should they return earlier, Union Berlin foregoes a training camp, opting instead to stay and train in Berlin. The immediate start of the Bundesliga would be delayed, and a change of climate might hamper their performance.
Union Berlin commences the 2024 soccer year with an away game against SC Freiburg on January 13, and a home match against FSV Mainz 05 follows six days later.
Notable Points:
- A potential early return could affect players' fitness and team dynamics, impacting their performance and preparation for upcoming matches.
- Coach Bjelica's break in Klagenfurt could enhance his readiness to lead the team through the busy schedule ahead.
Sources:
- Bundesliga prep in North Rhine-Westphalia might take an early turn for 1. FC Union Berlin, as the team faces tight Bundesliga fixtures.
- Coach Nenad Bjelica considers returning the players from Christmas vacation early, unlike Urs Fischer's initial plan to resume training on January 2.
- If they return earlier, 1. FC Union Berlin foregoes the opportunity to participate in a training camp, aiming to avoid a delayed start in the Bundesliga.
- Their 2024 soccer year starts with an away game at SC Freiburg on January 13, followed by a home match against FSV Mainz 05 on January 19.
As Bjelica prepares to lead 1. FC Union Berlin through the coming Bundesliga fixtures, his potential early return of players from their Christmas vacation could present various challenges and opportunities.
