{"id":46757,"date":"2026-08-15T14:17:22","date_gmt":"2026-08-15T09:17:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=46757"},"modified":"2026-08-15T14:17:22","modified_gmt":"2026-08-15T09:17:22","slug":"issues-before-kick-off-where-bundesliga-clubs-must-improve","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=46757","title":{"rendered":"Issues before kick-off: where Bundesliga clubs must improve"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script>\r\n  atOptions = {\r\n    'key' : '644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6',\r\n    'format' : 'iframe',\r\n    'height' : 90,\r\n    'width' : 728,\r\n    'params' : {}\r\n  };\r\n<\/script>\r\n<script src=\"https:\/\/www.highperformanceformat.com\/644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div xmlns:default=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> finally gets underway again on August 28. After clubs already had time since the transfer window opened in July to strengthen for the upcoming season, things are slowly getting serious. Although club bosses have been anything but inactive, every team still has one or two positions where reinforcements are needed. Here are the biggest problem areas for the clubs in Germany\u2019s top flight.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>SC Paderborn<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>Last season\u2019s promotion play-off winners urgently need to add more firepower in attack. Of the current options up front and on the wings, only Steffen Tigges and 36-year-old Sven Michel have <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> experience. And even those two have hardly set the world alight in the top flight so far.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"HorizontalSeparator_separator__zeIS5\"\/>\n<hr class=\"HorizontalSeparator_separator__zeIS5\"\/>\n<div class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__wSWcT\" style=\"--padding-bottom-mobile:66.66666666666666%;--padding-bottom-tablet-portrait:66.66666666666666%;--padding-bottom-tablet-landscape:66.66666666666666%;--padding-bottom-desktop:66.66666666666666%\"><picture class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__picture__7Bplo\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=560&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=560&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=413&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=413&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\"\/><img alt=\"Article image:Issues before kick-off: where Bundesliga clubs must improve\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"186.66666666666666\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568364164-blob\" width=\"280\" class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__img__0dUWu ImageWrapper_media-container__image__4Rgpy\" importance=\"low\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>\ud83d\udcf8 Christof Koepsel &#8211; 2026 Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>SV Elversberg<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>The same goes for <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> newcomers <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/elversberg-329\">Elversberg<\/a>. Alongside Luca Pfeiffer, who has managed just one goal in 43 <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> appearances so far, David Mokwa is planned as the central striker. He brings all of 20 minutes of <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> experience to the table. A solution could soon be in place: if the transfer doesn\u2019t still collapse, SVE are set to loan Noel Futkeu from Frankfurt after his 19 goals in the 2. <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> last season.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Schalke 04<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>As much as Schalke fans may not want to hear it: whether attacking player Kenan Karaman can establish himself in the <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> is far from certain. In his previous 123 <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> matches, the <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/schalke-04-144\">S04<\/a> captain scored only 14 goals and has never really shone in the top flight the way he has in the 2. <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__wSWcT\" style=\"--padding-bottom-mobile:66.66666666666666%;--padding-bottom-tablet-portrait:66.66666666666666%;--padding-bottom-tablet-landscape:66.66666666666666%;--padding-bottom-desktop:66.66666666666666%\"><picture class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__picture__7Bplo\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=560&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=560&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=413&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=413&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\"\/><img alt=\"Article image:Issues before kick-off: where Bundesliga clubs must improve\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"186.66666666666666\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568411042-blob\" width=\"280\" class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__img__0dUWu ImageWrapper_media-container__image__4Rgpy\" importance=\"low\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>\ud83d\udcf8 Christof Koepsel &#8211; 2026 Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>Since the alternatives in his position are also rather underwhelming, Schalke should take another look around here.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Werder Bremen<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>Despite the sporting blow of Romano Schmid\u2019s departure, Bremen should be looking even more urgently for an alternative on the defensive right flank. Whether Weiser will be fit for the start of the season is anyone\u2019s guess, and just about every other option would be out of position.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>1.FC K\u00f6ln<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>One thing is clear: if El Mala still leaves, <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/koeln-151\">K\u00f6ln<\/a> will need to add serious depth in attack. Aside from that, the Cathedral City club should definitely also be looking for a strong defensive midfielder. Okon-Engstler is still inexperienced, Krauss is repeatedly injured, and J\u00f3hannesson also had problems at <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> level last season.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Hamburger SV<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>It was clear that Vu\u0161kovi\u0107 would leave a big gap in defense. If the Hanseatic side are not to become a complete laughing stock at the back next season, Kr\u00fcger &amp; Co. still need to bring in an experienced player who can stabilize the defense at least to some extent the way Vu\u0161kovi\u0107 could.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Borussia M\u00f6nchengladbach<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>Gladbach are also looking thin at the back. While the duo of Diks and Elvedi certainly looks capable at <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> level, the alternatives behind them are largely inexperienced. Ideally, that gap should still be closed.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__wSWcT\" style=\"--padding-bottom-mobile:67.87037037037037%;--padding-bottom-tablet-portrait:67.87037037037037%;--padding-bottom-tablet-landscape:67.87037037037037%;--padding-bottom-desktop:67.87037037037037%\"><picture class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__picture__7Bplo\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=570&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=570&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=421&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=421&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=228&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=228&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=190&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=190&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\"\/><img alt=\"Article image:Issues before kick-off: where Bundesliga clubs must improve\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"190.03703703703704\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=190&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786568450564-blob\" width=\"280\" class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__img__0dUWu ImageWrapper_media-container__image__4Rgpy\" importance=\"low\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>\ud83d\udcf8 Daniela Porcelli &#8211; 2026 Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Union Berlin<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>For Union, there\u2019s no getting around the right-back position. Although Trimmel is a deserving K\u00f6penick legend, the Austrian is now a proud 39 years old. Alternative Juranovic is often injured, so a third \u2014 and perhaps more versatile \u2014 full-back certainly wouldn\u2019t hurt.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>FSV Mainz<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>After Eric Martel\u2019s injury, <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/mainz-163\">Mainz<\/a> could certainly consider another option for central midfield.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>FC Augsburg<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>For <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/augsburg-171\">FCA<\/a>, it\u2019s a \u201cwhat if\u201d scenario. If K\u00f6m\u00fcr still leaves the club, the Fuggerstadt side would definitely need to look for an attacking replacement. Otherwise, a versatile full-back would also be an option.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Eintracht Frankfurt<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>After Kristensen\u2019s departure, Frankfurt in turn should be looking for another right-back.\u00a0As things stand, they would otherwise go into the season with only Elias Baum, since Chandler, the first alternative, is injured. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__wSWcT\" style=\"--padding-bottom-mobile:66.75925925925927%;--padding-bottom-tablet-portrait:66.75925925925927%;--padding-bottom-tablet-landscape:66.75925925925927%;--padding-bottom-desktop:66.75925925925927%\"><picture class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__picture__7Bplo\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=561&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=561&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=414&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=414&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\"\/><img alt=\"Article image:Issues before kick-off: where Bundesliga clubs must improve\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"186.92592592592592\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786614007391-blob\" width=\"280\" class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__img__0dUWu ImageWrapper_media-container__image__4Rgpy\" importance=\"low\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>\ud83d\udcf8 Alex Grimm &#8211; 2026 Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>SC Freiburg<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>SC Freiburg are already well advanced in their squad planning. For the Breisgau club, the number one priority must be to sell Noah Atubolu for a satisfactory fee. Otherwise, \u20ac25 million in market value will be sitting on the bench or in the stands for the time being.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Bayer Leverkusen<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>After <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/bayer-leverkusen-162\">Bayer Leverkusen<\/a> filled the gap left by Hincapie in central defense with Medina, the focus should be on another defensive midfielder. Eichhorn has suffered a serious injury, and Palacios could still leave the club. If he goes, there would be a clear need for action here.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>TSG Hoffenheim<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>Ever since it became clear that Asllani is staying, <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/hoffenheim-158\">TSG<\/a> will probably not sign another striker. However, they could still strengthen in the number ten role.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__wSWcT\" style=\"--padding-bottom-mobile:70.64814814814815%;--padding-bottom-tablet-portrait:70.64814814814815%;--padding-bottom-tablet-landscape:70.64814814814815%;--padding-bottom-desktop:70.64814814814815%\"><picture class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__picture__7Bplo\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=593&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=593&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=438&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=438&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=237&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=237&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=198&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=198&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\"\/><img alt=\"Article image:Issues before kick-off: where Bundesliga clubs must improve\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"197.8148148148148\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=198&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569795335-blob\" width=\"280\" class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__img__0dUWu ImageWrapper_media-container__image__4Rgpy\" importance=\"low\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>\ud83d\udcf8 Neil Baynes &#8211; 2026 Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>Cont\u00e9 does not have much <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/competition\/bundesliga-1\/fixtures\">Bundesliga<\/a> experience, and the alternatives also do not look ideal so far if <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/hoffenheim-158\">TSG<\/a> want to follow up last season with another similarly successful campaign.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>VfB Stuttgart<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>For VfB, the question of their weak spot is still tied to possible departures. If El Khanouss, Demirovic, or both still leave, the Swabians will need to strengthen up front. If not, the attack has looked very solid since the Pejcinovic deal.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>RB Leipzig<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>After Diomande\u2019s mega-transfer to Real Madrid, the gap left by the Ivorian has to be filled. Primarily on the right wing, of course, but they will probably also want to add more depth.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Borussia Dortmund<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>After the endless back-and-forth of recent weeks, Dortmund\u2019s priority will probably be to finally get the El-Mala deal over the line. At least if BVB\u2019s public rejection was only a transfer tactic. Otherwise, an alternative will of course be needed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__wSWcT\" style=\"--padding-bottom-mobile:66.75925925925927%;--padding-bottom-tablet-portrait:66.75925925925927%;--padding-bottom-tablet-landscape:66.75925925925927%;--padding-bottom-desktop:66.75925925925927%\"><picture class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__picture__7Bplo\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=561&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1280px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=840&amp;h=561&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=414&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1024px) and (max-width: 1279px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=620&amp;h=414&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1023px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=336&amp;h=224&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: dark)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><source media=\"(max-width: 767px) and (prefers-color-scheme: light)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\"\/><img alt=\"Article image:Issues before kick-off: where Bundesliga clubs must improve\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"186.92592592592592\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=280&amp;h=187&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Ffilebucket.onefootball.com%2F2026%2F8%2F1786569818356-blob\" width=\"280\" class=\"ImageWithSets_of-image__img__0dUWu ImageWrapper_media-container__image__4Rgpy\" importance=\"low\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>\ud83d\udcf8 Christof Koepsel &#8211; 2026 Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><h3>Bayern Munich<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>After reports from around <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/en\/team\/bayern-munich-6\">Bayern<\/a> suggested that no more players are actually expected to come in, Bayern\u2019s current issue is Jo\u00e3o Palhinha. Ideally, the Portuguese midfielder should still be taken off the wage bill so he can prove himself elsewhere.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p><em>This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. <a href=\"https:\/\/onefootball.com\/de\/news\/baustellen-vor-dem-start-hier-muessen-die-buli-klubs-unbedingt-nachlegen-43280146\">You can read the original version in \ud83c\udde9\ud83c\uddea here.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"HorizontalSeparator_separator__zeIS5\"\/>\n<div class=\"ArticleParagraph_articleParagraph__k_2M8\">\n<p>\ud83d\udcf8 Alexander Hassenstein &#8211; 2026 Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"PublisherImprintLink_container__v8kTD title-7-medium\" href=\"https:\/\/static.onefootball.com\/legal\/imprint\/de\" rel=\"noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=32&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https:\/\/images.onefootball.com\/cw\/icons\/info-light.svg 1x, https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=48&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https:\/\/images.onefootball.com\/cw\/icons\/info-light.svg 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/image-service.onefootball.com\/transform?w=48&amp;dpr=2&amp;image=https:\/\/images.onefootball.com\/cw\/icons\/info-light.svg\"\/>View publisher imprint<\/a><button class=\"NativeShare_container__wfoDT Button_root__Br4W6 Button_outline__i5NIY\">Share this article<svg class=\"NativeShare_icon__NM_vo\" fill=\"currentColor\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M12.2377 1.1804a.75.75 0 0 0-.9762.0003l-3.51 3.01a.75.75 0 0 0 .9765 1.1386l2.292-1.9655V12.52c0 .46.33.84.73.84.4 0 .73-.37.73-.84V3.3633l2.2718 1.9463a.75.75 0 1 0 .9759-1.1392l-3.49-2.99Z\"\/><path d=\"M5.14 8.62c-.904 0-1.64.7358-1.64 1.6455v9.209c0 .9097.736 1.6455 1.64 1.6455h13.22c.904 0 1.64-.7358 1.64-1.6455v-9.1977c0-.9097-.736-1.6455-1.64-1.6455h-1.61a.75.75 0 0 1 0-1.5h1.61c1.736 0 3.14 1.411 3.14 3.1455v9.1977c0 1.7344-1.404 3.1455-3.14 3.1455H5.14C3.404 22.62 2 21.2089 2 19.4745v-9.209C2 8.5311 3.404 7.12 5.14 7.12h1.32a.75.75 0 1 1 0 1.5H5.14Z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<section class=\"XpaTaboolaPlaceholder_container__Xu_25\"\/><\/div>\n<script async=\"async\" data-cfasync=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/pl30214220.effectivecpmnetwork.com\/9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<div id=\"container-9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\"><\/div>\r\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Bundesliga finally gets underway again on August 28. After clubs already had time since the transfer window opened in July to strengthen for the upcoming season, things are slowly getting serious. Although club bosses have been anything but inactive, every team still has one or two positions where reinforcements are needed. Here are the&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":46758,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"https:\/\/photobooth-api.onefootball.com\/api\/screenshot\/%2Fv2%2Fphotobooth%2Fcms%2Fen%2F43280147%3Fdate=2026-08-15","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-46757","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-real-trending-viral-news"],"brizy_media":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/46757","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=46757"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/46757\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/46758"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=46757"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=46757"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=46757"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}