A look ahead to Karlsruher SC’s 2025/26 season covers transfers, pre-season preparations, the club's predicted line-up, and expectations for the upcoming campaign.
In 2024/25, KSC finished 8th in the 2. Bundesliga, a position that, while not extraordinary, reflects a positive overall performance for the club. After a mixed start, KSC found their form in the latter half of the season, reaching as high as fifth in April and showcasing performances that hinted at their potential to challenge for higher placements.
Coach Eichner, one of the longest-serving managers in the league, extended his contract through 2027 earlier this year. He emphasized the importance of continuity at Wildparkstadion, expressing his commitment to the club: “From the beginning, it was our wish to continue the path at KSC with maximum passion,” he stated.
Karlsruhe has been active in the summer transfer window, making several key additions. Roko Šimić, a highly-rated forward on loan from Cardiff City, is seen as a significant signing who could enhance KSC's attacking capabilities. Other important arrivals include goalkeeper Hans Christian Bernat from Botew Plowdiw, midfielder Andreas Müller, and left-back Niclas Dühring, who will add depth to the squad. Youth prospect Paul Scholl has also joined, while Noah Rupp and Eren Özturk return from loan spells.
Several players have departed the club this summer, including goalkeeper Max Weiß, who was sold to Burnley for approximately €4 million, and midfielder Leon Jensen, who joined Hertha BSC. Other exits include Robin Bormuth to FC Saarbrücken, Benedikt Bauer to Jahn Regensburg, and forward Luca Pfeiffer, who returned to VfB Stuttgart after a loan period. Additional departures include Lasse Günther, Bambase Conte, Andrin Hunziker, and Mustafe Abdullahu, who have all returned to their parent clubs.
Karlsruhe began their pre-season preparations in early July, participating in several warm-up matches. They recorded a 1–2 loss to Swiss side St. Gallen and a 2–1 victory over Ferencváros on July 15, 2025. These matches allowed coach Eichner to integrate new signings and assess youth players like Paul Scholl, who impressed in the friendly against Ferencváros. The final round of friendlies is scheduled for late July as KSC prepares for their league opener.
The predicted starting line-up for KSC includes goalkeeper Hans Christian Bernat, with a defensive unit likely comprising Christoph Kobald, Marcel Franke, and David Herold. In midfield, captain Marvin Wanitzek will be supported by Robin Beifus, Dzenis Burnić, and Leon Jensen, combining both creativity and defensive strength. Up front, new signing Šimić is expected to lead the attack, bringing pace and goal-scoring ability.
Looking ahead, Karlsruhe's mix of experienced leaders and young talent positions them to potentially improve upon last season's 8th-place finish. With a deeper squad, particularly in attack and midfield, and Eichner's stability, a top-six finish is a realistic target if new signings adapt quickly. However, promotion may still be challenging due to strong competition, though KSC could surprise teams once again.
The club opens its 2025/26 season at home against Preußen Münster, followed by a highly anticipated Matchday 2 fixture against Hertha BSC at the Olympiastadion.
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