A look ahead to Greuther Fürth’s 2025/26 campaign includes a recap of last season, pre-season preparations, transfer activity, their possible starting line-up, and expectations for head coach Thomas Kleine and the squad.
A glance at last season
After a turbulent 2024/25 campaign, Greuther Fürth is seeking stability as they enter the new season. The previous year saw three coaching changes, starting with Frank Haas replacing Alexander Zorniger in October, followed by Jan Siewert in November. As the club neared the relegation zone in May, Fürth appointed interim coaches Thomas Kleine and Milorad Peković, who successfully guided the team to safety with a 3-2 victory over Hamburger SV on the final day, finishing 13th and four points clear of the relegation play-off.
To build on this momentum, the club has appointed Kleine as the permanent head coach, with Peković remaining as his assistant. Sporting director Stephan Fürstner commended their leadership during a challenging period and expressed confidence in their ability to undertake a significant squad overhaul.
Pre-season preparations
Fürth has been active in pre-season, playing six friendlies. The campaign began with impressive wins against FC Herzogenaurach (13-1), SpVgg Ansbach (6-2), and FC Ingolstadt (4-2), before facing a setback with a 2-1 loss to Hallescher FC. The squad then traveled to Tyrol, Austria, for a week-long training camp, which included a 4-1 victory over SV Mannheim and a 1-0 loss to Huddersfield Town.
Despite mixed results, there have been positive developments, particularly in the team's attacking play, which has shown improvement. The training camp also allowed seven academy prospects to gain valuable experience, hinting at a promising future for the club.
Transfers
This summer, Fürth has balanced experience with youth in their transfer activity. Key signings include midfielder Mathias Olesen, defenders Philipp Ziereis and Brjynjar Ingi Bjarnason, full-back Jannik Dehm, and forward Felix Higl. These players are expected to provide leadership and structure to the transitioning squad.
Additionally, the club has brought in young talents such as defender Lukas Reich, goalkeeper Timo Schlieck, and midfielder Aaron Keller, indicating a commitment to blending energy with experience. However, the transfer window has also seen the departure of regulars Simon Asta, Marco Meyerhöfer, Gideon Jung, and Roberto Massimo, along with loanees Joshua Quarshie and Nahuel Noll returning to Hoffenheim, creating gaps in defense.
Predicted line-up
The anticipated formation is 3-4-2-1, featuring Boevink (GK), Ziereis, Dietz, Bjarnason, Dehm, Olesen, Green, Consbruch, Klaus, Hrgota, and Futkeu. Kleine is expected to maintain this formation, with defensive depth provided by Gian-Luca Itter and Reno Munz. New signings Felix Higl and Omar Sillah will compete for starting positions, while Aaron Keller's role remains uncertain due to an ankle injury.
How can Kleine continue to steady the ship?
To ensure a more stable season, Thomas Kleine must address last year's defensive weaknesses, as Fürth conceded 59 goals in 2024/25, one of the highest in the league. Improving composure and cohesiveness in defense is crucial, as previous issues with possession and turnovers were evident during pre-season. Additionally, Kleine will need to continue developing young talent to provide depth in case of injuries or suspensions.
Kleine's personal connection to the club positions him well to instill pride and responsibility in his players, essential qualities for steering Fürth back to a competitive standing.
Predictions for the upcoming season
With a solid core, promising young talent, and Kleine in his permanent role, Fürth aims for a comfortable mid-table finish, targeting positions between 8th and 12th in what is expected to be a competitive 2. Bundesliga season. This campaign marks a transitional phase for the club, with Kleine focusing on establishing his tactical identity and integrating new signings while laying the groundwork for future success.
Fürth will kick off their season at home against newly-promoted Dynamo Dresden on August 3rd, followed by an away match at Eintracht Braunschweig the following week. Early results will be crucial in building momentum for a more comfortable campaign.
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