Football Season Guide

Karlsruher did really well to quickly secure promotion and return to Bundesliga 2, with the Blues very ambitious and eyeing big things in the next few years. After guiding the team to the most wins in the Third Tier experienced at this level coach Schwartz plans to stay aggressive with his approach and Karlsruher will most likely use 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 more often than any other formations. In the latter, recently signed Frode is expected to execute anchor role, which should allow the likes of Wanitzek and Stiefler to roam forward with much more freedom. Two new proven goalscorers were added to the group of strikers and, with 8 centre forwards currently on the books, Karlsruher definitely have lots of firepower and the belief that they can outscore anyone. The fact that the height of the forwards varies will allow the team to use different approaches going forward, with giant Stroh-Engel expected to be coming late on in games in which Karlsruher trail. As with many other teams in Bundesliga 2, the main issue with the current squad is the lack of depth in the wide areas. Currently, there are only 2 typical full-backs in the squad, plus only 1 right winger. Of course, the arrival of Grozurek is welcomed, with the explosive winger equally good at both ends of the pitch. Experience won’t be an issue with at least 8 of the starters likely to be aged 26 or older. Also most of the players in the squad have played many games in Bundesliga 2 already.