A spirit of optimism in front of 1,000 fans as TSG begin preseason preparations

Football is finally back: 50 days after the last game of last season, head coach Christian Ilzer brought his team back onto the pitch. Welcomed by around 1,000 fans – twice as many as at the start of training a year ago – preparations began for the new season, which is set to be more successful than the last. “We all enjoyed our holidays, spent time with our families and recharged our batteries. We’re really happy to be back on the pitch together – especially in front of so many fans,” said Ilzer after the 75-minute session.

The TSG pros who were in action with their national teams in June were absent, as was Ozan Kabak, who is still in rehab after tearing his cruciate ligament. Dennis Geiger and Stanley Nsoki were also not present on the pitch due to minor injuries and instead completed individual training sessions. In addition to the first-team squad, Kelven Frees, Luka Đurić and goalkeeper Benjamin Lade from the U23s also trained.

Meanwhile, new signings Bernardo, Tim Lemperle and Leon Avdullahu made their debut in TSG colours. Koki Machida will join the team after his extended holiday. The three new players’ impressions are positive: “I’m extremely happy to be part of TSG, training has been a lot of fun,” said Avdullahu. Lemperle agreed and added: “I’m also delighted that so many spectators showed up.”

The 30-year-old Bernardo also enjoyed his first training session in Zuzenhausen and hopes to play an important role at TSG. “I’ve already experienced a lot in my career, so I believe I can help the young team,” said the defender, adding: “I want to do that on and off the pitch so that we can have a good season together.”

The first friendly of preseason is scheduled for next Saturday (12 June). Christian Ilzer’s team will face Regionalliga side SGV Freiberg at 1. FC Mühlhausen's ground. Tickets cost €10 for adults and €5 for young people. The box office will open at 14:00 CEST on the day of the match, with kick-off at 15:30.