HSV under pressure: striker search and injury problems in winter!

HSV under pressure: striker search and injury problems in winter!

Hamburger SV faces a challenging winter transfer window. Those responsible are currently worried about the center forward position. In fact, no player has scored more than one goal in the Bundesliga so far. Coach Merlin Polzin often relies on Ransford Königsdörffer, who, however, is not very dangerous to score. Robert Glatzel, who hit the mark in his starting debut against VfB Stuttgart, now has to sit out due to a torn muscle fiber. Captain Yussuf Poulsen is also affected by injuries, which further complicates the situation.

Sports director Stefan Kuntz has reacted and sees an acute need for action in the striker position. HSV is increasingly looking for a fast striker for transition situations and a classic nine who can act as a target player. So far there is a list of 30 potential new signings, including the 21-year-old Damion Downs from Southampton FC. It remains to be seen whether he is the right man for Hamburg.

Offensive and wing problems

But HSV doesn't just have problems in the storm. The offensive wings are also still a work in progress. Rayan Philippe has scored four goals, but he lacks consistency. Fábio Vieira, who feels more comfortable in the center, also doesn't bring the desired liveliness. In addition, Emir Sahiti is not considered suitable for the Bundesliga. The injury to Jean-Luc Dompé, who is struggling with Achilles tendon problems, means the pressure on the remaining players is increasing.

Alexander Rössing-Lelesiit is showing promising approaches on the flanks, but Fabio Baldé has not been able to convince either. A dangerous winger who can play on both sides is urgently needed. Giorgi Gocholeishvili is currently under criticism, particularly on the right side: although he was initially convincing, he is currently showing some weaknesses in form.

Defense and possible departures

The situation looks similarly tense on the defensive. Miro Muheim, who recently seemed overloaded, urgently needs support on the left side. And Noah Katterbach, who is facing a possible winter farewell, is no longer certified to have the necessary Bundesliga level. Raoul Petretta, who will be available on a free transfer in January, could be the backup we are looking for here.

Hamburger SV, with 140,000 members and rich in tradition, can look back on successes such as six championships and winning the European Cup Winners' Cup. But this season has been mixed so far. The Rothosen are currently in 13th place in the Bundesliga with 16 points and 16 goals. In the so-called “true table” things look a little better: There they are in 10th place with 25 points and 17 goals. The transfer balance also shows that those responsible were active: 20 new additions brought income of 7.17 million euros, while 19 departures cost 9.80 million euros.

In this critical phase it will become clear whether HSV makes the right decisions to strengthen the team and secure relegation. An imaginative transfer in the winter could be the decisive step.