Football Season Guide

Union Berlin's upward curve continued with another historic campaign last year that saw them finish in the top four and qualify for the Champions League. Berlin spent much of the season in and around the top spot before a late dip in form meant they had to settle for a fourth placed finish. Home form was key to their brilliant season, with Berlin ending the season unbeaten in front of their home fans. Coach Urs Fischer worked miracles last season but will find it difficult this time around despite some decent activity in the transfer market. Berlin have converted Diogo Leite's loan into a permanent move while also improving their midfield options by signing Lucas Tousart. Alexander Schwolow will provide depth in the goalkeeping position though David Datro Fofana will be the player to watch out for after completing a loan move from Chelsea. Other two attacking arrivals Mikkel Kaufmann and Benedict Hollerbach are unknown quantities with the duo not having played in the Bundesliga. Brenden Aaronson has also signed on loan and is expected to improve the attack, something which Berlin struggled last season with joint worst goal tally in the top half. There have not been any major departures with Berlin moving on bit part players in Seguin, Michel and van Drongelen while Oztunali, Mohwald, Gießelmann and Maciejewski have all left after their contracts expired. Berlin were hard to break down at the back last season and a tight defense once again remains their biggest strength this year though Fischer will be hoping the new additions in the attack will ensure another successful campaign this season.