Drama at 1. FC Köln: Kessler disappointed about Obuz's departure!

Drama at 1. FC Köln: Kessler disappointed about Obuz's departure!

A lot is happening at 1. FC Köln! While the new sports director Thomas Kessler is just getting started in his position, there are already some personnel changes to report. Kessler, who is now in charge of the Billy Goats' fortunes, made two million-dollar transfers right at the start to get the team fit for the coming Bundesliga season. FC is not spared from departures: Elias Bakatukanda is again loaned out to Blau-Weiß Linz in Austria, while Dejan Ljubicic and Tim Lemperle are leaving the club for free.

A highlight of the news is the return of Marvin Obuz. After a not so easy loan to Rot-Weiss Essen, where he collected 21 scorer points last season (including 7 goals and 14 assists), the 23-year-old is now once again looking for an optimal playing opportunity. So far this season he has only made five league appearances and spent a total of around 100 minutes on the pitch. Kessler expressed regret about the situation of the talented offensive player, who is being courted by several clubs from the 2nd and 3rd league. Among those interested are his former loan club RWE, as well as Arminia Bielefeld and Dynamo Dresden, all of whom are showing great interest in Obuz. According to kicker the decision about his future will probably be made soon.

What else is going on in squad planning? Some contracts were not extended - such as that of goalkeeper Philipp Pentke and midfielder Mathias Olesen. Anthony Racioppy will also return to Hull City. These changes are part of a broader change that involves both new arrivals and numerous departures. According to transfermarkt, the league reported a total of 311 departures in this transfer period with very interesting transfer amounts and a total income of over 700 million euros. The average income per club is almost 39 million euros, while the expenses per club are also on the higher side at over 43 million euros. This shows that many clubs want to do a good deal in order to position themselves for the new season.

The signs point to change, and the coming season could hold many exciting challenges for 1. FC Köln. With the new man at the top of the sport and a fresh squad design, the club wants to underline its ambitions in the Bundesliga. Kessler has little time to waste in setting the right course. The next few weeks will show whether this will also be successful with Marvin Obuz as the new regular player. One thing is certain: there is a lot going on in Cologne – and fans can look forward to the coming developments!