Football Season Guide

Nurnberg achieved their pre-season expectations of gaining promotion from the 2.Bundesliga last season, but missed out on the trophy after defeat in their final game meant they finished second in the league table, three points behind champions Fortuna Dusseldorf and with a better goal difference record. Coach Michael Kollner will nevertheless be happy with how the campaign unfolded, with Nurnberg booking a place in the top flight of German football after a four-year absence. Kollner will now be looking to ensure his side do not drop straight back into the second division but will be aware Nurnberg face a very tough challenge if they are to extend their stay in the Bundesliga beyond this season. Kollner has managed to hold onto almost all of his first choice players so far, though there have been a couple of departures including that of Kevin Mohwald who was a regular in the starting lineup last season, chipping in with four assists and a goal from the midfield, but has since been signed on a free transfer by Werder Bremen. Thorsten Kirschbaum provided depth for the goalkeeper position but has also not extended his stay at the club, though Fabian Bredlow had been their first choice keeper last season. However, the arrival of Christian Mathenia from Hamburger SV means it will be the new signing who is expected to start in the goal when the season kicks off. Robert Bauer has also been brought on loan from Bremen and will be providing Bundesliga experience, but it has been an overall underwhelming transfer window for Nurnberg who have managed to avoid the temptation of splashing big towards securing their top flight status. Fans though will be happy their side were able to hang onto Hanno Behrens and Mikael Ishak, with the duo scoring 26 of Nurnberg's 61 goals scored last season and will once again be key to their hopes of ensuring a successful battle against relegation this season