SG Flensburg-Handewitt will part ways with captain Johannes Golla, who is returning to MT Melsungen for the 2026/2027 season. Golla, 27, confirmed he would not renew his contract and has signed with Melsungen until 2031. This announcement comes just before a crucial DHB Cup quarter-final against Melsungen. Golla expressed mixed emotions about leaving Flensburg, where he has enjoyed success, while both clubs prepare for significant transitions in the coming years.
SG Flensburg-Handewitt Faces Captain Departure
In a significant turn of events for the Bundesliga handball scene, SG Flensburg-Handewitt is set to bid farewell to their captain, Johannes Golla. The talented player has made the decision to return to MT Melsungen, starting from the 2026/2027 season. This announcement comes at a crucial time, as it precedes an intense quarter-final match in the DHB Cup between the two clubs.
Golla’s Emotional Decision and Future Plans
On Tuesday, SG Flensburg-Handewitt confirmed Golla’s departure, stating that the 27-year-old pivot will not renew his contract, which is slated to expire on June 30, 2026. Instead, Golla has committed to MT Melsungen through 2031, marking a new chapter in his career.
This news arrives just days before SG faces off against the current Handball Bundesliga leaders in the DHB Cup quarter-finals, scheduled for Thursday at 8 PM. Earlier in the season, Flensburg suffered a significant defeat against Melsungen, raising the stakes for their upcoming match.
Reflecting on his decision, Golla shared, “There are ‘two hearts’ beating in my chest.” He expressed sadness about leaving a club and community he has grown to love, yet acknowledged that it is time for a new challenge. He will be appearing on NDR Sportclub this Sunday.
SG managing director Holger Glandorf conveyed the team’s desire to continue working with Golla, emphasizing his role as a pivotal figure for SG Flensburg-Handewitt. As Golla prepares to transition, he has promised to give his all during his remaining time with the team, stating, “Until then, I will give 110 percent, as always.”
For MT Melsungen, acquiring Golla is a major achievement. Sports director Michael Allendorf expressed enthusiasm about the signing, noting that opportunities to bring in a player of Golla’s caliber are rare. “Johannes is coming home!” Melsungen proudly announced on Instagram.
This transfer news follows closely on the heels of the departure of coach Nicolej Krickau, marking a period of significant changes within SG Flensburg-Handewitt.
Golla originally joined Flensburg in 2018 after three successful years at MT Melsungen, where he quickly made an impact by winning the German championship in his debut season. His accolades continued to grow, including victories in the DHB Super Cup and the European League.
As the national team captain returns to his roots in Hesse, anticipation for this transition has been building over recent months. Following a recent defeat to Rhein-Neckar Löwen, SG Flensburg-Handewitt has made coaching adjustments, with Ljubomir Vranjes stepping in temporarily.
Looking ahead, the Flensburg roster is set for major changes not only in 2026 but also in the upcoming summer. New additions like right winger Domen Novak are on the horizon, while Johan Hansen and Aksel Horgen will be departing. Additionally, national team player Luca Witzke is expected to join as a replacement for playmaker Jim Gottfridsson.
Currently, SG Flensburg-Handewitt finds itself underperforming compared to initial expectations for the season. Despite a recent victory over Füchse Berlin, they occupy sixth place in the league standings, trailing leaders Melsungen by five points.
With plans already in motion for a new signing from Slovenia in 2025, SG is actively working to strengthen its squad. The coach has praised Luca Witzke, highlighting the potential impact of the national player in the team’s future endeavors.