Football Season Guide

Duisburg achieved a quick return to the second tier in style after winning the title in the Third Division last season and now the Zebras will be determined to establish themselves at this level. Coach, Iliya Gruev, is a club legend - the Bulgarian is Duisburg's all-time top goalscorer and, with the fans and the entire board backing him passionately, the atmosphere in the squad is really good. This was reflected in the fact that all of the regulars from last season pledged loyalty and decided to stay. Despite being limited in his spending, Gruev strengthened the squad even more in the summer and at least three of the newcomers are expected to be heavily involved. Stoppelkamp arrives to provide a spark down the left wing, Frode was signed to stabilise the midfield while Albutat is recovering from knee surgery – the latter won't be available until after the winter break – plus Tashchy gives an extra option in attack. Experienced goalkeeper Davari is also seen as a very good signing and he will be ready to replace Flekken between the posts at any time. Duisburg are known for being very solid hosts but the Zebras need to show much more on their travels compared to two years ago if they want to avoid a quick relegation this time around. Aged 37, the team's captain Bajic remains an important figure in the backline and, together with his 34-year-old compatriot Hajri, he will be providing guidance as well as invaluable help to the three other centre-backs who will be competing for places. Down the flanks Duisburg have two aggressive full-backs who love the overlap, both Klotz and Wolze are known for scoring goals and providing regular assists, with the fully fit Wiegel also expected to play a key role as a winger. With three lethal strikers on top of the newly signed Tashchy, Duisburg should continue their good scoring record from last season. As Gruev was a centre-forward himself, he works really well with his strikers according to all pundits.