1. FC Nürnberg is undergoing significant personnel changes, including coach Miroslav Klose reshaping the squad. Rising star Stefanos Tzimas, attracting Premier League interest, may leave despite a purchase option. Meanwhile, Kanji Okunuki has departed, and other players are likely to follow. New signing Tim Drexler joins as the team prepares for the second half of the season, having recently completed a successful training camp. Currently, FCN sits eleventh in the league, focusing on consistency to aim for promotion playoffs.
Personnel Changes at 1. FC Nürnberg
During the festive season, 1. FC Nürnberg witnessed significant changes, particularly in its roster. Coach Miroslav Klose has been actively trimming the squad and isn’t finished yet. Meanwhile, young striker sensation Stefanos Tzimas is attracting attention from numerous Premier League clubs.
The team’s victory against Braunschweig before Christmas provided essential stability for Klose and 1. FC Nürnberg. This win allowed the coach and players to focus on the upcoming second half of the season without the burden of pressure. The club’s next challenge will be a tough home match against second-placed Karlsruher SC on Sunday.
Future of Tzimas and Other Departures
Expectations are high for Tzimas, the 18-year-old striker, although his future seems uncertain. The Greek talent is on the radar of several Premier League teams, and a transfer in the summer appears likely. The club secured a purchase option of nearly €20 million for the player loaned from PAOK Saloniki, but it seems Tzimas won’t don the club’s colors next season. Instead, calculations are underway for a potential transfer.
Sports director Joti Chatzialexiou has been vocal about exercising the purchase option, likely as a strategic move to sell the young striker shortly after. With offers estimated around €30 million, this would result in a significant profit for the club. Reports suggest that English league leaders FC Liverpool had plans to make a bid this winter, but that move is currently on hold. Tzimas is anticipated to be a key player for the team in the upcoming matches.
On the other hand, Kanji Okunuki’s journey with FCN has come to an end. The Japanese winger, once sought after, has returned to Gamba Osaka due to Klose’s tactical changes, which favor high-advancing full-backs over traditional wingers. Consequently, the management is also considering the departure of Benjamin Goller.
Additionally, Taylan Duman is likely leaving Valznerweiher, while Tim Handwerker has already transferred to league rivals Regensburg after five years with the club.
However, departures aren’t the only story. Tim Drexler has joined from Hoffenheim, seeking valuable playing time in the 2. Bundesliga until summer, although the club does not hold a purchase option for the 19-year-old center-back.
In preparation for the second half of the season, FCN opted for a training camp at home rather than flying abroad, as in previous years. The camp took place in Herzogenaurach, where the German national team had trained during the European Championship. Chatzialexiou expressed satisfaction with the conditions, emphasizing the team’s growth and cohesion.
Wrapping up the training camp, FCN faced third-division Ingolstadt twice, winning both matches (2:1 and 3:0), which boosted their confidence against the rising team.
As they enter the second half of the 2. Bundesliga season, the club currently sits in eleventh place, just six points away from the promotion playoff spot. However, the management is focusing on consistency. Chatzialexiou has made it clear that the team needs to maintain high performance throughout the full 90 minutes, as inconsistency has allowed opponents to catch up in the past. This is the next crucial step he expects from the squad.