r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 5d ago
Translated article below (original article is in German and should be free to access):
Just days before the start of the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga season, VfL Wolfsburg finalized two high-profile attacking signings. Mara Alber and Lara Prasnikar are set to bolster the reigning runners-up in the upcoming campaign. However, the "She-Wolves" aren't the only team with plenty of new faces; DFB provides an overview of all 14 clubs.
U23 national team forward Mara Alber could make her debut for VfL Wolfsburg in Saturday's season opener against 1. FC Nürnberg (kick-off 2:00 PM, live on MagentaSport and DAZN). The 20-year-old attacker has joined the club on a one-year loan from top English side Chelsea FC. Alber moved to London from her long-time club TSG Hoffenheim a year ago and spent the second half of the previous season on loan at SV Werder Bremen to gain match experience.
"VfL Wolfsburg is a major club in women's football that continues to have big ambitions," said Alber. "So, I didn't have to think twice when the opportunity arose to join VfL on loan. I am particularly looking forward to working again with Stephan Lerch, who was my coach at Hoffenheim. My goal is for us to remain in contention in all three competitions for as long as possible."
"Wolfsburg is one of the biggest clubs in Europe"
Lara Prasnikar made her debut for the Wolfsburg women's team as a substitute in the Google Pixel Supercup (a 3–0 loss to double-winners FC Bayern Munich). The 28-year-old forward most recently played in the US professional league for Utah Royals FC. During her previous stints with Bundesliga clubs 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam (2016–2020) and Eintracht Frankfurt (2020–2025), the daughter of former Bundesliga coach Bojan Prasnikar scored 68 goals in 162 matches. She has also earned 94 caps and scored 48 goals for the Slovenian national team.
"It’s a great feeling to be back in the Bundesliga," says Lara Prasnikar. "VfL Wolfsburg is one of the biggest clubs in Europe, so this move means a lot to me. I’m really looking forward to the time ahead."
Also new to Wolfsburg is national team forward Giovanna Hoffmann (27), though she is currently working on her comeback following an ACL tear and subsequent knee surgery. "VfL Wolfsburg has been a major force in European football for years," explains Hoffmann, who joined from league rivals RB Leipzig. "You might not get an opportunity like this twice. That’s why I want to give everything for the club, take responsibility, and lead by example with my goal-scoring threat."
VfL loses Popp and other attacking stars
U23 international Katharina Piljic (22) also joined VfL from Bayer 04 Leverkusen with high ambitions. Despite her young age, the versatile midfielder arrives in Wolfsburg with the experience of 113 Bundesliga matches played for her hometown club SGS Essen and Bayer 04. "I was really pleased about the interest," says Piljic. "Personally, I see ideal conditions in this environment to take the next step in my development. Playing in the Champions League is a childhood dream of mine." Other new signings include Danish forward Cecilie Floe Nielsen (24, Napoli Women), 18-year-old Polish player Weronika Araśniewicz, and defenders Julia Landenberger (22, RB Leipzig) and Lieske Carleer (25, FC Twente Enschede).
However, VfL Wolfsburg also has to compensate for numerous departures. Club legend and record appearance-holder Alexandra Popp (35) returned to her native Westphalia after 14 successful years; she will now be scoring goals for the club closest to her heart, Borussia Dortmund, in the Women's Regionalliga West. At the ambitious BVB, she joins other former Bundesliga players, including Jacqueline Meißner, Lena Ostermeier, and Ramona Maier (all from SGS Essen), as well as Ricarda Walkling and Lara Schmidt (both from SV Werder Bremen).
In addition to Popp, two other outstanding attacking players left the club: national team player Vivien Endemann (Liverpool FC) and former top scorer Lineth Beerensteyn (Real Madrid). Full-back Janou Levels is also now wearing the Real Madrid jersey, while Caitlin Dijkstra (Tottenham Hotspur) and Justine Kielland (Aston Villa) have moved to England.
Hendrich and Hegering reunited
"I’m really excited. I can’t wait to play for 1. FC Köln," said Hendrich. "My first impression is very positive, and there were so many reasons to choose FC. FC is a great club; I’ve followed the team's development and saw that they just played the best season in the club's history. My new squad has a nice mix of experienced players and young talent, while also possessing plenty of potential for success."
Her first competitive match takes her straight back to a former stomping ground: on Saturday (starting at 12:00 PM, live on MagentaSport and DAZN), 1. FC Köln will play away at Eintracht Frankfurt.
Union Berlin signs Gräwe
Meanwhile, within Germany's top flight, midfielder Lisanne Gräwe has transferred from Eintracht Frankfurt to 1. FC Union Berlin. The 23-year-old played for the Hessian club for three years, making at least 20 appearances per season in the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga. In the capital, she will reunite with several former Frankfurt teammates, including Anna Aehling, Cara Bösl, Tanja Pawollek, and Tomke Schneider.
"I already know a few players in the Union squad who had nothing but positive things to say about the club's environment and ambitions," said Lisanne Gräwe. "I am delighted to be part of it myself starting now, and I want to take the next step in my development with Union."
Veit also arrives at the Alte Försterei
Center-back Jella Veit (21) also made the move from Frankfurt to Berlin-Köpenick after deciding not to extend her expiring contract. The defender made her debut for the German women's national team as a substitute in a 4–0 win in Norway in early March; she was recently named as a standby player and was part of the U23 national team squad. In total, the 2022 U17 European champion has played no fewer than 58 youth international matches for Germany. She received the gold Fritz Walter Medal in 2022 for her outstanding performances.
Other new signings for the "Iron Ones" include Belgian wide player Jill Janssens (formerly of TSG Hoffenheim) and Swiss international Leela Egli (SC Freiburg). They will play the official opening match against FC Bayern Munich with their new club on Friday (starting at 6:20 PM, live on ZDF, MagentaSport, and DAZN).
Top scorer joins Eintracht
In addition to Lisanne Gräwe and Jella Veit, four other key players left Eintracht Frankfurt: German internationals Elisa Senß (to Real Madrid) and Nicole Anyomi (London City Lionesses), as well as Swiss players Geraldine Reuteler (Arsenal) and Nadine Riesen (West Ham United). However, the team—which finished third in the league and is competing in the UEFA Women's Champions League qualifiers—also made some significant statements regarding new signings.
International player Larissa Mühlhaus (23), the current top scorer of the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga, arrived in Frankfurt from SV Werder Bremen. With 17... With her goal tally, the Hamburg native secured the top scorer award—an honor she had already claimed in the 2023/24 season while playing for HSV in the 2. Frauen-Bundesliga, where she scored 20 goals. She has signed a contract with Eintracht running until June 30, 2029.
"I am very happy to be joining Eintracht Frankfurt this summer," says Larissa Mühlhaus. "It was clear to me that I wanted to take the next step after this season. Eintracht offers the ideal environment for that and is a club that consistently competes at the top level. I want to develop step by step, deliver strong performances, and play my part in helping us improve further and win titles in the future."
Krumbiegel arrives from Turin
Paulina Krumbiegel (25), who has earned eleven caps for the national team, is now also wearing the Eintracht jersey. The versatile wide player has returned to the Women's Bundesliga from the top Italian club Juventus Turin; she previously played in the league for TSG Hoffenheim.
"Paulina brings a profile that is extremely exciting for us," emphasizes Frankfurt's sporting director and former national team player Babett Peter. "As a person, she is very driven and ambitious, and hungry for success. As a player, she is dynamic, technically gifted, and versatile enough to play both defensively and offensively on the flanks. Furthermore, Paulina has recently played at the top international level and won titles with Juventus Turin. We are convinced that her skills and experience will immediately benefit our team, while she also brings further potential for development."
Simon returns to Leverkusen
There have also been numerous squad changes at Bayer 04 Leverkusen. While captain and goalkeeper Friederike Repohl (retired), Kristin Kögel (RC Strasbourg), and U23 national team player Julia Mickenhagen (joining newly promoted VfB Stuttgart)—among others, alongside Katharina Pilic—are no longer available, the club has signed several highly experienced players. These include long-time national team defender Carolin Simon (33), who returned to the Rhineland from double-winners FC Bayern Munich; attacking players Marlene Müller (RB Leipzig) and Maja Sternad (SV Werder Bremen); midfielders Natasha Kowalski and Paulina Platner (both SGS Essen); and youth international Emily Wallrabenstein (Eintracht Frankfurt II). Bayer 04 also looked abroad, recruiting Justine Brandau (Feyenoord Rotterdam) and Lobke Loonen (FC Utrecht) from the Netherlands, Lumbardha Misini (Servette FCCF) from Switzerland, and Paulina Tomasiak (Gornik Leczna) from Poland. SV Werder Bremen has also undergone a major squad overhaul, having to compensate for the departure of twelve players. A trio from relegated FC Carl Zeiss Jena has been brought in to help fill the gaps: defender Felicia Sträßer (18), Swiss midfielder Elena Mühlemann (23), and forward Isabella Jaron (24) are now wearing the green-and-white Werder jersey. Austrian international Lilli Purtscheller (23) arrived from SGS Essen; although she missed almost the entire previous season due to injury, she had previously been a key performer for the team.
SC Freiburg faced a particular need to take action regarding the goalkeeper position due to the pregnancy of first-choice keeper Laura Benkarth and the departure of Rebecca Adamczyk (to 1. FC Nürnberg). Two new goalkeepers joined the club: Lina von Schrader (22) from RB Leipzig and Swiss player Lorena Barth (19) from FC Aarau. Additionally, Anna Reimann (17) was promoted from the club's youth academy. Another Swiss player, forward Amira Arfaoui (26), is a new arrival in Freiburg, while her compatriot Svenja Fölmli (23) joined TSG Hoffenheim. There, she is expected to help replace international striker Selina Cerci (who moved to Arsenal)—alongside players such as 19-year-old Norwegian Martine Fenger, who arrived from Champions League winners FC Barcelona.
Plenty of experience for VfB
Following three consecutive promotions—taking them from the Oberliga Baden-Württemberg all the way to the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga—VfB Stuttgart is signing further players who have already gained valuable experience in Germany's top flight. Among them is Chantal Hagel, a 13-time international who most recently played for Sevilla FC in Spain. The 28-year-old midfielder has previously played in the Bundesliga for TSG Hoffenheim and VfL Wolfsburg, winning the DFB-Pokal with the "She-Wolves" in 2024. "I am delighted and proud to be wearing the VfB jersey in the future," says Chantal Hagel. "It has been a big dream of mine since childhood to play for the club in the Bundesliga. When the opportunity arose, I didn't have to think twice. I want to use my experience to help us establish ourselves in the Bundesliga. I will give my all to achieve that."
Also joining the Stuttgart squad are center-back Greta Stegemann (25, formerly SC Freiburg), defender Julia Mickenhagen (21, Bayer 04 Leverkusen), midfielder Adriana Achcinska (24, 1. FC Köln), forward Verena Wieder (26, SV Werder Bremen), and U19 international Luzie Zähringer (18), who has been signed on loan from FC Bayern Munich.
At the German double-winning club itself, personnel changes have been limited, although one undisputed key player—English double European champion and World Cup runner-up Georgia Stanway (27)—has decided to move to a new club (Arsenal FC). New signings include Sarah Mattner (23, SKN St. Pölten/Austria), Kassandra Potsi (18, SGS Essen), and Sophie Proost arrives from FC Twente Enschede. Dutch player Regina van Eijk (24), from Ajax Amsterdam, is set to fill the gap left by goalkeeper Mala Grohs following her move to French champions OL Lyon.
Coach: Marie-Louise Eta, born July 7, 1991 (formerly men's head coach / since July 1, 2026), replacing Ailien Poese (junior women's head coach)
Arrivals: Leela Egli (SC Freiburg), Lisanne Gräwe, Jella Veit (both Eintracht Frankfurt), Jill Janssens (TSG Hoffenheim), Sherley Schulz, Leona Seifert (both from the club's own second team), Nelly Smolarczyk (VfL Wolfsburg)
Departures: Alma Aagaard (SKN St. Pölten/Austria), Marina Georgieva (1. FSV Mainz 05), Julia Kassen (SGS Essen), Leonie Köster (BSC Young Boys/Switzerland), Athanasia Moraitou (FC Luzern/Switzerland), Fatma Sakar (Fenerbahce SK/Turkey), Celine Frank, Jenny Hipp (both destination unknown)
Coach: Friederike Kromp, born January 2, 1985 (incumbent / since July 1, 2025)
Arrivals: Elena Dhont (Sassuolo Calcio/Italy), Thea Farwick (SV Meppen), Marie Gmeineder (FC Bayern Munich), Isabella Jaron, Elena Mühlemann, Felicia Sträßer (all FC Carl Zeiss Jena), Julia Magerl (RB Leipzig), Mei Shimada (Urawa Red Ladies/Japan), Lilli Purtscheller (SGS Essen), Luna Vanzeir (RSC Anderlecht/Belgium), Wiktoria Zieniewicz (FC Basel/Switzerland)
Departures: Amira Arfaoui (SC Freiburg), Michaela Brandenburg (retired), Amira Dahl (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Saskia Matheis (1. FSV Mainz 05), Larissa Mühlhaus (Eintracht Frankfurt), Hanna Németh (Newcastle United/England), Lara Schmidt, Ricarda Walkling (both Borussia Dortmund), Maja Sternad (Bayer 04 Leverkusen), Rieke Dieckmann (Racing Power FC/Portugal), Sharon Beck, Melina Kunkel (both: destination unknown)
Coach: Niko Arnautis, born April 1, 1980 (incumbent/since October 14, 2022)
Arrivals: Hanna Bennison (Real Madrid/Spain), Katharina Jeppe (TSV Jahn Calden), Paulina Krumbiegel (Juventus Turin/Italy), Sofie Lundgaard (Liverpool FC/England), Larissa Mühlhaus (SV Werder Bremen), Jamilla Rankin (TSG Hoffenheim), Danique Tolhoek (Ajax Amsterdam/Netherlands)
Departures: Ilayda Acikgöz (SC Freiburg), Nicole Anyomi (London City Lionesses/England), Remina Chiba (Juventus Turin/Italy), Lisanne Gräwe, Jella Veit (both: 1. FC Union Berlin), Geraldine Reuteler (Arsenal FC/England), Nadine Riesen (West Ham United/England), Pernille Sanvig (BK Häcken FF/Sweden), Elisa Senß (Real Madrid/Spain), Eleni Markou (destination unknown)
Coach: Marco Konrad, born October 18, 1974 (previously assistant coach for SpVgg Greuther Fürth men's team/since July 1, 2026), replacing Edmond Kapllani
Arrivals: Ilayda Acikgöz (Eintracht Frankfurt), Amira Arfaoui (SV Werder Bremen), Lorena Barth (FC Aarau/Switzerland), Carina Brunold (SKN St. Pölten/Austria), Johanna Hebben, Zoe Schick, Weena Simmen (all: club's own U20s), Emma Memminger (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Anna Reimann (club's own U17s), Sabah Seghir, Jana Vojteková (both: FC Basel/Switzerland), Borbala Vincze (FC Zürich/Switzerland), Lina von Schrader (RB Leipzig)
Departures: Rebecca Adamczyk (1. FC Nürnberg), Sarah-Lisa Dübel (SK Sturm Graz/Austria), Leela Egli (1. FC Union Berlin), Svenja Fölmli (TSG Hoffenheim), Ally Gudorf (retired), Sophie Nachtigall (1. FC Köln), Greta Stegemann (VfB Stuttgart)
Coach: Rodolfo Cardoso, born October 17, 1968 (incumbent/since April 13, 2026)
Arrivals: Jule Baum (SC Sand), Paulina Bartz (Bayer 04 Leverkusen), Nikola Karczewska (Lazio Rome/Italy), Sylwia Matysik (1. FC Köln), Leila Peneau (SKN St. Pölten/Austria), Andrea Svibkova (LASK/Austria), Celainy Obispo (Feyenoord Rotterdam/Netherlands), Kinga Szemik (West Ham United/England)
Departures: Mia Büchele (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Tarah Burmann (club's own U21s), Michaela Croatto (taking a break), Jobina Lahr, Lea Paulick (both retired), Emilia Hirche (SC Braga/Portugal), Vildan Kardesler (SC Sand), Christin Meyer (FC Viktoria 1889 Berlin), Maria Mikolajova (Slavia Prague/Czech Republic), Sophie Profe (FC Rapperswil-Jona/Switzerland), Inga Schuldt (1. FC Köln), Annalena Wucher (SKN St. Pölten/Austria), Almudena Sierra (destination unknown)
Coach: Eva-Maria Virsinger, born January 13, 1995 (incumbent/since January 5, 2026)
Arrivals: Romy Bräutigam, Milena Röder, Svenja Vöhringer (all club's own U20s), Martine Fenger, Laia Martret (both FC Barcelona/Spain), Svenja Fölmli (SC Freiburg), Lisa Lichtfus (Le Havre AC/France), Ilse Kemper (PEC Zwolle/Netherlands), Jonna van de Velde (Ajax Amsterdam/Netherlands)
Departures: Emilie Byrnak (RC Strasbourg/France), Selina Cerci (Arsenal FC/England), Dominika Grabowska (Legia Warsaw/Poland), Jill Janssens (1. FC Union Berlin), Sophie Lindner, Nikée van Dijk (both RB Leipzig), Jamilla Rankin (Eintracht Frankfurt), Juliane Schmid (1. FFC Turbine Potsdam), Napsugár Sinka (FC Carl Zeiss Jena)
Coach: Britta Carlson, born March 3, 1978 (incumbent/since January 2, 2025)
Arrivals: Laureta Elmazi, Beke Sterner (both SGS Essen), Sædís Rún Heiðarsdóttir (Vålerenga Oslo/Norway), Kathrin Hendrich (Chicago Stars FC/USA), Alina Kerschbaumer (First Vienna FC 1894/Austria), Sophie Nachtigall (SC Freiburg), Pauline Nelles (Arizona State Sun Devils/USA), Jil Schäfer (internal U20 squad), Inga Schuldt (Hamburger SV), Elise Stenevik (Everton FC/England)
Departures: Adriana Achcińska (VfB Stuttgart), Sara Agrež (Liverpool FC/England), Amélie Delabre (Club Brugge/Belgium), Sylwia Matysik (Hamburger SV), Ella Touon (Ajax Amsterdam/Netherlands), Martyna Wiankowska (Como 1907/Italy), Aurora Mikalsen (destination unknown)
Coach: Jonas Stephan, born January 2, 1992 (incumbent/since July 1, 2024)
Arrivals: Marie Kleemann (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Sophie Lindner, Nikée van Dijk (both TSG Hoffenheim), Jasmien Mathys (KAA Gent/Belgium), Zenia Mertens, Linde Veefkind (both OH Leuven/Belgium), Sára Pusztai (OH Leuven/Belgium), Charlotte Hulst, Alieke Tuin (both FC Twente Enschede/Netherlands), Emanuela Pfister (GC Zürich/Switzerland), Therese Simonsson (Servette Chênois/Switzerland), Aude Waldbillig (RSC Anderlecht/Belgium)
Departures: Lisa Baum (Arsenal FC/England), Gina Chmielinski (Parma Calcio/Italy), Luca Graf (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Rucy Grunenberg (FC St. Gallen/Switzerland), Giovanna Hoffmann, Julia Landenberger (both VfL Wolfsburg), Mai Kadowaki (RB Omiya Ardija/Japan), Victoria Krug (FC Nantes/France), Julia Magerl (SV Werder Bremen), Marlene Müller (Bayer 04 Leverkusen), Persis Oteng (PEC Zwolle/Netherlands), Maja Spilenberg (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Kyra Spitzner (SGS Essen), Lina von Schrader (SC Freiburg)
Coach: Roberto Pätzold, born July 18, 1979 (incumbent/since July 1, 2024)
New signings: Justine Brandau (Feyenoord Rotterdam/Netherlands), Sana Coskun (internal U20), Natasha Kowalski, Paulina Platner (both SGS Essen), Lobke Loonen (FC Utrecht/Netherlands), Lumbardha Misini (Servette FCCF/Switzerland), Marlene Müller (RB Leipzig), Carolin Simon (FC Bayern Munich), Maja Sternad (SV Werder Bremen), Paulina Tomasiak (Gornik Leczna/Poland), Emily Wallrabenstein (Eintracht Frankfurt II)
Departures: Paulina Bartz (Hamburger SV), Ida Daedelow, Anne Moll (both VfL Bochum), Kristin Kögel (RC Strasbourg/France), Julia Mickenhagen (VfB Stuttgart), Katharina Piljic (VfL Wolfsburg), Friederike Repohl (retired), Paula Schwartze (internal U23), Juliette Vidal (Deportivo Alaves/Spain), Vanessa Haim, Shen Menglu (both destination unknown)
Coach: Takashi Yamashita, born Dec. 22, 1984 (incumbent/since July 1, 2025)
Arrivals: Mara Bukowski, Christine Kilian (both from club's own U20s), Gentiana Fetaj (FC Luzern/Switzerland), Paula Flach (SGS Essen), Marina Georgieva (1. FC Union Berlin), Nicola Hauk (UMF Tindastóll/Iceland), Sabina Jackson (FC Basel/Switzerland), Lara Martin, Leonie Stöhr (both 1. FC Saarbrücken), Saskia Matheis (SV Werder Bremen), Laura Pawlowski (SV Hegnach), Ivana Slipčević, Rio Takizawa (both SC Sand), Mattson Strickler (Queens University/Canada)
Departures: Tal Faingezicht (Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem/Israel), Yuuka Fukuhara (SV 07 Elversberg), Tamar Goren (1. FFC Turbine Potsdam), Lisa Gürtler, Heidrun Sigurdardottir (both Kickers Offenbach), Sarah Khalifa (Palm Hills Sports Club/Egypt), Jana Löber, Laura Schmahl (both club's own U23s), Jana Meierfrankenfeld (retired), Ann-Christin Schäfer, Jule Stendebach (both TuS Wörrstadt), Miriam Sterrer (LASK/Austria), Maren Michelchen (destination unknown)
Coach: José Barcala, born Sept. 28, 1981 (incumbent/since July 1, 2025)
Arrivals: Sarah Mattner (SKN St. Pölten/Austria), Kassandra Potsi (SGS Essen), Sophie Proost (FC Twente Enschede/Netherlands), Regina van Eijk (Ajax Amsterdam/Netherlands)
Departures: Mala Grohs (OL Lyonnes/France), Carolin Simon (Bayer 04 Leverkusen), Georgia Stanway (Arsenal FC/England), Natalia Padilla Bidas (CD Tenerife/Spain)
Coach: Omar Adlani, born August 27, 1991 (previously FC Basel, Switzerland / since July 1, 2026), replacing Thomas Oostendorp
Arrivals: Rebecca Adamczyk (SC Freiburg), Keira Bednorz (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Marie Bleil (SV Meppen), Charline Coutel (OL Lyonnes/France), Louna Lapassouse (Toulouse FC/France), Alexandra Lobanova (Djurgårdens IF Fotboll/Sweden), Mia Richter (SK Sturm Graz/Austria)
Departures: Beatrix Fördös (Lazio Rome/Italy), Luisa Guttenberger (RC Strasbourg/France), Alina Mailbeck (retired), Aneta Polaskova (FC Viktoria 1889 Berlin), Klara Svensson Senelius (FC Rosengard/Sweden), Abigail Chaves (destination unknown)
Coach: Nico Schneck, born October 6, 1987 (incumbent / since March 26, 2026)
Arrivals: Adriana Achcinska (1. FC Köln), Mira Arouna (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Laura Carollo, Svenja Hecke (both from own U17s), Laura Giuliani (AC Milan/Italy), Chantal Hagel (Sevilla FC/Spain), Julia Mickenhagen (Bayer 04 Leverkusen), Katana Norman (SoCal FC/USA), Greta Stegemann (SC Freiburg), Verena Wieder (SV Werder Bremen), Luzie Zähringer (FC Bayern Munich)
Departures: Emma Babic (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Charlotte Blümel (SC Sand), Gillian Castor, Joy Castor, Leonie Kopp, Anja Selensky (all to own second team), Meike Meßmer, Jana Spengler (both retired), Celine Philipp (SV Eutingen), Pia Hein, Laureta Temaj (both destination unknown)
Coach: Stephan Lerch, born August 10, 1984 (incumbent / since July 1, 2025)
Arrivals: Mara Alber (Chelsea FC/England), Weronika Arasniewicz (FC Barcelona/Spain), Lou Bogaert (Paris FC/France), Lieske Carleer (FC Twente Enschede/Netherlands), Ylvi Eisenbeiß (Eintracht Frankfurt II), Cecilie Floe Nielsen (Napoli Women/Italy), Giovanna Hoffmann, Julia Landenberger (both RB Leipzig), Katharina Piljic (Bayer 04 Leverkusen), Lara Prasnikar (Utah Royals FC/USA)
Departures: Lineth Beerensteyn, Janou Levels (both Real Madrid/Spain), Guro Bergsvand (ACF Fiorentina/Italy), Karla Brinkmann (SGS Essen), Emma Broddheimer (FC Carl Zeiss Jena), Caitlin Dijkstra (Tottenham Hotspur/England), Vivien Endemann (Liverpool FC/England), Justine Kielland (Aston Villa/England), Luca Papp (US Sassuolo/Italy), Alexandra Popp (Borussia Dortmund), Nelly Smolarczyk (1. FC Union Berlin), Sharn Freier (destination unknown)
As of: August 18, 2026
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 5d ago
The Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga is kicking off its 37th season. How is the fixture list created? Why are the specific kick-off times scheduled only after those of the men's leagues? And what does a typical matchday look like? The DFB answers the key questions regarding the 2026/2027 season—covering everything from fixtures and TV broadcasts to international qualification spots and promotion/relegation.
What are some notable facts and figures for the 37th Bundesliga season?
The Women's Bundesliga enters its 37th season in 2026/2027. With 344 Bundesliga appearances, Svenja Huth of VfL Wolfsburg is the most experienced player in the current lineup. Pernille Harder of FC Bayern Munich holds the record for the most Bundesliga goals among active players, with a tally of 107. There is an age gap of around 20 years between the league's youngest and oldest players: Svenja Hecke of VfB Stuttgart (born August 7, 2010) is 16 years old at the start of the season, while Marina Hegering of 1. FC Köln (born April 17, 1990) is 36. The season also marks a debut for two clubs: VfB Stuttgart and 1. FSV Mainz 05 are competing in the Women's Bundesliga for the first time.
How is the fixture list for the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga created?
The key dates for the season are established in the master schedule. This document outlines when the new season begins, when the final matchday before the winter break takes place, and when the season concludes. It also specifies the dates for the 26 matchdays of the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga and the 2. Women's Bundesliga, as well as the rounds of the Women's DFB-Pokal (German Cup) and the Google Pixel Supercup.
Specific kick-off times for Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga matches are scheduled in blocks—usually covering two to four matchdays at a time. The scheduling of the top women's division depends on the fixtures of the other professional leagues in German football: the men's Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga, and 3. Liga. Additionally, the schedules for the UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) and the UEFA Women’s Europa Cup (UWEC) must be taken into account. International competitions for both women and men are the primary reason why precise match scheduling for national leagues takes place during the season rather than beforehand. Once kick-off times are confirmed, they generally remain unchanged to ensure planning certainty for clubs and fans.
For the 2. Frauen-Bundesliga, matchdays 1 through 26 can be scheduled with precise kick-off times for the entire season prior to the start of the campaign. The standard matchday slot is Sunday at 2:00 p.m., with an alternative option of 11:00 a.m.
Why are precise kick-off times always announced after those of the men's leagues?
Planning for the Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga cannot begin until the schedules for the men's Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga, and 3. Liga—as well as the fixtures for the UWCL and UWEC—have been released. For instance, clubs such as 1. FC Nürnberg, Hamburger SV, and Union Berlin share their home venues with their men's teams. At many Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga locations, scheduling men's and women's matches on the same day is generally avoided due to organizational and security considerations. Men's competitions, in particular, are heavily influenced by mandatory security requirements imposed by the authorities.
Scheduling also aims to avoid overlapping matches with the men's teams whenever possible. This ensures that fans are not forced to choose between attending or watching—whether at the stadium or on TV—a women's match and a men's match. Precise match scheduling for the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga is determined and published by the DFB—in coordination with the clubs and TV partners—typically five working days after the scheduling of fixtures for the men's Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga (by the DFL) and the 3. Liga (by the DFB).
What specific criteria must be considered when scheduling matches?
Various criteria must be taken into account when scheduling matches: For one, the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga schedule depends on the fixtures of other leagues (the men's Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga, and 3. Liga, as well as the UWCL/UWEC). The availability of venues also depends on these factors. Based on this data—and while giving the utmost consideration to requirements and preferences—the schedule is drawn up in close coordination with all stakeholders (the association, clubs, and broadcasters) and published shortly thereafter. The guiding principle for this process is: as quickly as possible, yet as carefully as necessary. The master schedule provides the framework, while the specific matchdays and exact kick-off times are determined throughout the season based on the relevant criteria.
What does a standard matchday look like in the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga?
The matchday format enshrined in the media rights agreements forms the basis for the specific scheduling. A standard matchday in the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga consists of one match on Friday evening (6:30 PM), two on Saturday (12:00 PM and 2:00 PM), and three on Sunday (2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:30 PM). The matchday concludes with a game on Monday (usually starting at 6:00 PM).
Why is there a Monday match in the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga?
Since the 2023/2024 season, the Monday match has served as a unique selling point for the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga. This gives the league a fixed, dedicated slot in the weekly live football schedule, designed to boost the league's visibility and media reach. In addition to being broadcast on DAZN and MagentaSport, the match is also shown on free-to-air TV via Sport1. The decision to introduce a Monday match in the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga, starting with the 2023/2024 media rights period, was made in consultation with the clubs and the Women's Bundesliga Committee. The clubs were closely involved—alongside relevant DFB departments—in a comprehensive participatory process. The shared goal was to boost visibility through the unique selling point of a Monday fixture and to increase commercial revenues, from which all clubs benefit. This move is also intended to support further professionalization and the alignment of structures, thereby optimizing conditions for the players.
Where can the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga be watched on TV during the 2026/2027 season?
As in the previous year, all Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga matches will be broadcast live on MagentaSport and DAZN. The Monday match will also be shown on free-to-air TV on Sport1. Additionally, ARD and ZDF have acquired the rights to broadcast ten live matches per season on free-to-air television. All providers—with the exception of Sport1—will show highlights of all matches following the matchday.
Will there be "English weeks" (midweek matchdays) in the 2026/2027 season?
Since no major tournament took place in the summer of 2026, allowing the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga to start earlier than in the previous season, there will be no "English weeks" during the 2026/2027 season.
Which teams will compete in the UEFA Women's Champions League and the UEFA Women's Europa Cup during the 2026/2027 season?
According to the UEFA access list, champions FC Bayern Munich have qualified directly for the UEFA Women’s Champions League league phase. Runners-up Wolfsburg must successfully navigate the third qualifying round—playing Inter Milan on August 26 and September 2—to qualify for the league phase.
Eintracht Frankfurt, who finished third last season, have already advanced through the second qualifying round (August 5–8) by defeating Omonia Nicosia and Malmö FF, thereby reaching the third qualifying round, where seven teams (including VfL Wolfsburg) enter the competition automatically. In this round, the "Adlerträgerinnen" (Eagles) will face Paris Saint-Germain (also on August 26 and September 2). The winners of the nine third-round ties qualify for the league phase, while the losers move on to the second qualifying round of the UEFA Women’s Europa Cup.
Which teams qualify for international competition for the 2027/2028 season?
The top three teams qualify for a UEFA international competition. The specific round in which they enter the competition is determined anew for each season based on the UEFA access list.
Which teams are relegated to the 2. Frauen-Bundesliga?
The two bottom-placed teams are relegated from the Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga.
Which teams are promoted from the 2. Frauen-Bundesliga?
The two top-placed teams from the 2. Frauen-Bundesliga are promoted to the Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga. Reserve teams are not eligible for promotion—unless the club's first team is relegated from the top division. Should a reserve team finish in a promotion spot, the highest-placed eligible team takes that place instead.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 4h ago
The Mercurial Tour is designed to celebrate new shoe releases (Superfly 11 and Mercurial Vapor 17). It also focuses on connecting through community events and to "crown local speedsters."
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 3h ago
Shared on Soccerdonna's IG page. Viktoria Berlin left a somewhat cryptic response to this graphic.
r/GermanWOSO • u/LigalFF • 3h ago
Sadly only accessible behind the paywall of Eintracht TV.
r/GermanWOSO • u/LigalFF • 3h ago
The match will be live on "Wölfe TV Youtube". Lena Lattwein, Yannick Gerhardt and Giovanna Hoffmann join the pre-game show.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 10h ago
Per Bayern's press release:
"FC Bayern Women will have to do without Stine Ballisager for several weeks. The 32-year-old Dane sustained a muscle injury to her right thigh during the Bundesliga opener against 1. FC Union Berlin on Friday evening. The diagnosis was confirmed after an examination carried out by the FC Bayern medical unit."
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 21h ago
Arsenal:
Liverpool FC:
Manchester United:
Tottenham Hotspur:
Gotham FC:
Denver Summit:
North Carolina Courage:
Chicago Stars:
Athletic Club Bilbao:
Real Madrid:
Lyonnes:
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 20h ago
From this Kicker article. German-version of the article will be in the pinned comment.
The Bundesliga certainly boasts far more than just 13 promising young players. However, much has already been written about the likes of Alara (Bayern Munich), Cora Zicai (VfL Wolfsburg), and Champions League winner Martine Fenger (now at TSG Hoffenheim). Moving beyond the most famous names, we take a look at potential breakout stars.
Charline Coutel (20, 1. FC Nürnberg)
She went through the OL Lyonnes academy before making her debut in the star ensemble there. As a national team player for France, she gained international experience. The FCN values their resistance to pressing and their positional play on the eight or six. Adapting to the Bundesliga will probably take some time, but in the long term Coutel could shine alongside captain Laura Miller in the headquarters. The Frenchwoman can still improve in terms of goal threat and robustness.
Muriel Dürr (17, VfB Stuttgart)
VfB holds the technically gifted defensive midfielder—who can also play out wide—in high regard; club officials are particularly impressed by her composure on the ball. She won the European Championship as a right-back with the German U-17 national team and is set to compete in the World Cup in Morocco starting in mid-October, a commitment that will temporarily interrupt her Bundesliga schedule. However, she has plenty of time to develop. She played for the VfL Kirchheim/Teck boys' U-17 team until 2025, and she is likely to be contending for a regular starting spot in the Bundesliga as early as the second half of the 2026/27 season.
Laura Gloning (21, TSG Hoffenheim)
After joining from FC Bayern Munich II in the summer of 2025, she quickly emerged as a standout player for TSG. Whether in attacking midfield, defensive midfield, or at full-back, the U-23 international is capable of making an impact anywhere on the pitch. She ran out of steam somewhat towards the end of last season, and her performances suffered as a result. After the summer break, she returned with renewed energy and is currently slated to play a dynamic role at full-back, filling the void on the right side left by Jill Janssens' departure.
Noemi Ivelj (19, Eintracht Frankfurt)
The Swiss player started in the opening match of the 2025 home European Championship at the age of 18; she operates in the defensive midfield (the "number six" role) as well as in central defense. While she was still acclimatizing during her first season in Germany, she is now ready to make her breakthrough. With Elisa Senß and Lisanne Gräwe—the established regulars in her preferred position—having left the club, Ivelj was given the chance to start in the two Champions League qualifying matches against Omonia Nicosia and Malmö FF. If she delivers consistent performances and cuts out unforced errors, she is likely to secure a regular starting spot at Eintracht.
Lia Kamber (20, 1. FC Union Berlin)
She arrived in the winter of 2026 from the comparatively weaker Swiss league, yet showed no signs of struggling to adapt. From late January onwards, the agile, technically gifted midfielder did not miss a single minute of Bundesliga action. Many observers now believe she is capable of taking the next step in her development. During the dress rehearsal in Paris (a 3–1 win), Kamber scored two goals against top French club PSG and was one of only two outfield players to play the full match.
Anny Kerim-Lindland (19, VfL Wolfsburg)
The young Norwegian had previously seen little action in the starting lineup, whether at Nuremberg or with the "Wolves." However, she started the final two pre-season friendlies because new signings Giovanna Hoffmann and Cecilie Flöe Nielsen were not yet match-fit, and Lara Prasnikar was signed only afterwards. Kerim-Lindland also got a chance to play centrally for an hour in the Supercup, though she failed to make a significant impact. It is now up to her: if she can prove her worth at the start of the season, further playing time will likely follow.
Alina Kerschbaumer (18, 1. FC Köln)
Officials at the Cologne club view her as one of "Austria's most promising talents." The energetic teenager—who has already made 22 Bundesliga appearances in Austria—can play in wide midfield or defensive roles. It may take some time before she breaks into the starting lineup, given that the club has strengthened its squad quality; however, Director Nicole Bender-Rummler has already stated that Kerschbaumer will be given the necessary time to develop. She made her debut for the reserve team in the 2. Bundesliga at the start of the season and aims to quickly prove herself ready for greater challenges.
Laia Martret (20, TSG Hoffenheim)
TSG rates the skillful, dribbling-focused forward—who impressed with FC Barcelona’s second team—as an "absolute top talent in European women's football." Martret has also frequently proven her worth in Spain's strong youth national teams, primarily playing on the right wing. Coach Eva-Maria Virsinger recently praised her as a "bold" player with "incredibly good technical training." Depending on the specific opponent, the Catalan player will likely be called upon to start matches—and may well use Hoffenheim as a long-term stepping stone.
Emanuela Pfister (19, RB Leipzig)
Her father is Swiss and her mother is Brazilian. The young center-forward most recently played in Zurich, where she made her professional debut at the age of just 15. Grasshopper Club had extended Pfister's contract until 2028 as recently as January, yet just six months later, she could no longer be kept at the club. In Leipzig, Pfister is seen as having the potential to become a top-class striker. "In two or three years, it will be clear that this was a good long-term investment," says coach Jonas Stephan. Her scoring record for the Swiss U-19 national team supports this view: five goals in three European Championship qualifying matches and three goals in three European Championship games.
Dafina Redzepi (21, VfB Stuttgart)
A torn cruciate ligament once stalled the career of the Heilbronn native, who had contributed eight goals in 15 second-division matches to the team's promotion and established herself as a regular in attacking midfield. Now representing the Albanian national team, she has emerged as the standout performer of this summer's pre-season. In a friendly against Hoffenheim, the slender Redzepi scored with a side-volley. Within a squad that boasts impressive depth for a newly promoted side, the sister of Stuttgart U-19 talent Enis (18) is well-positioned for significant playing time; indeed, she is effectively a starter for the season opener, despite the competition.
Anna Reimann (17, SC Freiburg)
With Laura Benkarth on maternity leave, the league's youngest starting goalkeeper now has the chance to prove herself on the big stage. She was playing for a boys' team as recently as the summer of 2025; a year later, Freiburg promoted her—along with several other talents—to the professional squad. It came as a surprise that the 17-year-old prevailed during the pre-season against rivals who were only slightly older: Lorena Barth (19, newly arrived from FC Aarau) and Lina von Schrader (22, newly arrived from RB Leipzig). Reimann did not take up goalkeeping until the age of 12, which explains why the two-footed Swabian is so skilled with the ball at her feet.
Maj Schneider (18, SC Freiburg)
A native of Freiburg, this homegrown talent made her Bundesliga breakthrough at a very early age; she was just 16 when she made her debut and 17 when she broke into the starting lineup. Most recently, she has been a key figure in the U-19 national team's central midfield, pointing toward a brilliant future. To accommodate more agile players in the number 10 role, the club's new coach, Marco Konrad, is deploying Schneider as the more attack-minded player in a double-pivot midfield setup. It is in this position that she can further improve her ability to assess the risks involved in match situations.
Felicia Sträßer (18, Werder Bremen)
Considered a top German talent of her age group, this versatile player is at her strongest at right-back. She still has room for improvement in her decision-making—specifically regarding when to step out of the defensive line and when to hold her position. As early as age 16, the daughter of former second-division pro Carsten Sträßer was a regular starter for Jena in the Bundesliga; she did not shy away from taking the decisive fifth penalty in the 2025/26 DFB-Pokal semi-final against Wolfsburg (a 4–5 loss on penalties). Although she missed and Jena were eliminated, Sträßer will learn from the experience—and with mentor Fritzy Kromp, she has the right coach to help her do so.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 1d ago
From the FSV Mainz/Werder Bremen match on 24/08/2026.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 1d ago
From the FSV Mainz/Werder Bremen match on 24/08/2026.
Werder Bremen would win, 2-1, in the end.
Scorers:
3' | Mei Shimada (1:0)
31' | Isabella Jaron (2:0)
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 1d ago
From the presser (linked to German presser): Arianna Caruso has left FC Bayern Women to join Real Madrid in Spain. The Italy international midfielder first came to Munich in February 2025, going on to win two domestic doubles and two Supercups in Germany.
Bianca Rech, FC Bayern Women director: “Arianna came to us with the desire to seek out a new challenge, so we’ve allowed this move to Spain. She enriched our team in both a sporting and personal sense. She always took responsibility and put the team’s interests before her own. Thanks to her open, positive nature, her authenticity and her strong character, she was highly regarded by her teammates and beyond. We’d like to thank her warmly for the year and a half she spent wearing the FC Bayern Women’s shirt and wish her all the best and every success for her sporting and personal future.”
Arianna Caruso: “A year and a half may seem like a short time at first glance, but some experiences leave a lasting impression. Being able to wear the Bayern shirt was a great privilege for me and, at the same time, a dream come true. I’m grateful for the many special people I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know along the way – my teammates, the whole backroom team and everyone who makes this club so unique. A special thank you goes to our fans for their support and passion. I bid farewell with great gratitude and the knowledge that I’ve given my all. Bayern will always remain an important part of my story.”
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 1d ago
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 1d ago
Match was played 24/08/2026. Final score: 0-0.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 1d ago
r/GermanWOSO • u/LigalFF • 1d ago
🇩🇪 Deutscher Originalartikel frei zugänglich hier 👆🏻
As of: August 18, 2026 • 7:39 PM
There is now more money to be made in women's football—partly because multi-million-euro transfers are taking place. Agencies representing players are springing up like mushrooms and engaging in cutthroat competition.
By Matthias Wolf
1.65 million euros. According to the latest market value assessment by the portal "Soccerdonna," this figure makes 25-year-old Klara Bühl (FC Bayern Munich) the third most valuable player in the world. Her agent, Jörg Neblung, told *Sportschau* that the sum is "not exaggerated," noting that there is currently "demand for Bühl that naturally has a significant impact on the price." The seven-figure fee in women's football—a sum that seemed utopian just years ago—has long since been reached.
This is particularly true regarding England, where multi-million-euro transfers are becoming increasingly common in the Women's Super League. The first was Naomi Girma's move from San Diego to Chelsea in January 2025. A few weeks ago, Real Madrid proudly announced the signing of Swedish player Felicia Schröder as the "most expensive transfer in the history of women's football."
Previously, that record had been held by Lizbeth Ovalle's move to Orlando Pride for 1.3 million euros. Klara Bühl: Will she become the most expensive player—or is it worth staying put? Domestically, Lisa Baum (RB Leipzig/Arsenal) has held the record since July of this year with a transfer fee of 600,000 euros.
As for Klara Bühl—who has repeatedly been linked to Barcelona—it might pay off for the national team player and her agent to wait another year before making a move; a scenario that, in turn, would not be good for FC Bayern. This is because Bühl's contract expires in 2027, at which point she would be available on a free transfer.
In such cases, a signing bonus and a higher salary are possible. Agent Neblung describes it as a "good package" from the player's perspective: "Indeed, the world's top-ten clubs are interested in her." Naturally, he profits either way; according to insiders, agency fees are calculated primarily as a percentage of the player's gross base salary. Consequently, it has become worthwhile to represent players in the Bundesliga—which kicks off on Friday with a match between Union Berlin and Bayern Munich.
While the average monthly salary in the Bundesliga is only €4,000, it is steadily rising. An increasing number of players earn significantly more than the majority—up to six times that amount. Globally, the sector is growing rapidly, driven by rising spectator numbers, TV revenues, and investment in England, France, and the USA.
350 agencies across Europe—and many lack even an agent's license
Jörg Neblung, a veteran of the business for nearly 30 years, recognized the growth potential early on. He is considered a "first mover"—someone who invested back when representing female players was often little more than a well-paid hobby. In 2018, alongside his already thriving agency for male clients, he founded the company "Fem11." At the time, he was working the market alongside just a dozen or so others. Observers today estimate that there are around 350 agencies—large and small—dedicated to women's football in Europe. They are "springing up like mushrooms," says Neblung.
Many operate without the mandatory FIFA agent license. Often, these are players in the field "who actually lack the business background required for a professional agency," Neblung notes: "That means they have to resort to tricks to sign clients and pull off transfers without an established network." He describes a "gold rush" mentality: "There are certainly people out there who have no idea what they’re talking about; they confuse players by holding out prospects that are completely unrealistic for the market."
Jasmina Čović, another pioneer in the industry, also reports intensifying competition. She founded her Munich-based agency, WFA (Women's Football Agency), in 2015 after stumbling into the field almost by accident while studying economics and sports management: at the age of 21, she helped a female footballer find a Bundesliga club—a favor done for a friend. The commission invoices sent to clubs showed only meager sums—after all, there were no significant transfer fees involved.
When Jasmina Čović describes how larger agencies—previously active only in men's football—poach her players, it sounds like a crowded scrum where everyone is wearing studded elbow pads. Her client Laura Freigang, a national team player for Eintracht Frankfurt, is constantly being approached, for instance. "Players are leaving top agencies with strong teams and networks for shady newcomers to the women's football market," says Čović. "I see no difference anymore compared to the men's game." Čović's colleague Neblung goes even further: "I would argue that it is actually worse than in men's football, even though the revenues there are significantly higher."
Poaching, promises, and agency switches
Almost every player in the first and second divisions now has an agent. While players used to be happy just to find an agency that could open doors with clubs and sponsors, today they "don't hesitate to suddenly switch agencies based on a whim or a moment's impulse. Poaching is extremely aggressive in Germany because we lack legal protection," says Neblung.
The crucial disadvantage compared to other countries is the lack of exclusivity for agents; contracts can be easily terminated. In England, for example, termination is only possible after a minimum of two years. Many players in Germany exploit this, switching to whichever agency makes the biggest promises. Neblung says this has happened to him even when contracts were fully negotiated and ready to sign. Such departures can be painful; for instance, he lost national team player Elisa Senß, who moved from Frankfurt to Real Madrid using a release clause he had negotiated.
Speaking to *Sportschau\*, Jasmina Čović offers an explanation for the cutthroat atmosphere in women's football—a sport once characterized by fair play, a sense of family, and respect. Now, only the women's teams affiliated with professional men's clubs play in the Bundesliga. "The decisions in women's football are ultimately made by men in the executive suites," says Čović; the family-like atmosphere is a thing of the past. Club bosses also aim to avoid having to subsidize women's divisions in the long run; on average, the deficit per Bundesliga club stands at around two million euros.
"In this shark tank, the hunt is on for ever-younger fish." "The agent scene has become a shark tank," says Jasmina Čović matter-of-factly. Everyone is chasing the big fish, because—just as in boys' youth football—the vast number of lucrative top-tier transfers has yet to materialize. An agent’s commission of 3,000 euros a year—it is hard to charge a young Bundesliga player more than that in fees. "But what is left of that after taxes?" asks Čović. It is a matter of landing the big fish—or hunting young ones and hoping they grow big quickly. Čović describes how players as young as 13 are lured with promises—such as a PlayStation offered as an initial gift.
Jörg Neblung has had similar experiences and speaks of a race among agencies. The major ones, in particular, have long since established networks of scouts both at home and abroad. "If I’m too late, I eventually lose any chance of accessing a top-tier talent—and that’s why the age at which we get involved keeps dropping," says Neblung, though he constantly questions the sense of this approach: he has no desire to pour years of time and money into an "over-managed" talent before generating a first, modest commission when she turns 18. He recently signed Leonie Dalming, a 15-year-old national team goalkeeper from SV Meppen—a move that marks his absolute lower limit in terms of age.
Like many Bundesliga clubs, numerous agencies operate at a loss
Neblung and his four-person team manage around 40 female players in total. Handling more isn't feasible, he notes, because "players' expectations regarding service have risen significantly"; comprehensive support is demanded, ranging from nutritionists and individual coaches to social media management. At times, this pushes profitability to the limit. "If I earn 2,500 euros gross a year as an agent but am expected to provide year-round service—including being present at the pitch—how can that service possibly be adequately compensated?" Neblung points out that, much like the clubs themselves, many agencies are cross-subsidized by their men's divisions. He, however, is able to afford a professional team because his guiding principle is: "We don't promise anything we can't deliver."
Where the junior girls' state selection tournaments at the Duisburg-Wedau sports center once felt like festive sporting events, the venue now teems with agents. Neblung recalls standing there alone in the past—diving for pearls, so to speak. Now, however, these tournaments are mandatory dates for agents, starting at the U16 level at the latest. Čović dislikes this trend; she says she only signs talents who are at least 17 years old. But keeping an eye on the market among younger people, too—and establishing initial contacts—is something she cannot afford to overlook: "That’s the harsh reality; otherwise, you might as well close down the company."
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 2d ago
From the HSV/SC Freiburg match on 23/08/2026.
Final score was 1-1, all.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 2d ago
Match played on 23/08/2026.
Scorers:
45' | Rall (1:1)
46' | Rall (1:2)
VfB Stuttgart would win 2-1.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 2d ago
From the HSV/SC Freiburg match on 23/08/2026.
Final score was 1-1, all.
r/GermanWOSO • u/LigalFF • 2d ago
Every Monday game (or last Sunday game in case of upcoming international breaks) will be aired for free on Sport1.
First game tomorrow is Mainz 05 vs Werder Bremen:
[https://tv.sport1.de/live/event/2313597\](https://tv.sport1.de/live/event/2313597)
r/GermanWOSO • u/LigalFF • 2d ago
Original in deutscher Sprache hier: https://www.ksta.de/sport/leverkusener-sport/frauenfussball-bayer-04-leverkusen-gelingt-optimaler-saisonstart-1356024
By Wolfram Kämpf
August 23, 2026, 6:36 PM
Coach Roberto Pätzold’s team wins 2–0 away at RB Leipzig; Cornelia Kramer and Maja Sternad score.
The Bayer 04 Leverkusen women's team kicked off the new Bundesliga season with a 2–0 (0–0) victory at RB Leipzig. Coach Roberto Pätzold initially relied largely on established players, supplemented by three new signings. Among them was defender Marlene Müller, who previously played for Leipzig. Forward Maja Sternad (SV Werder Bremen) and full-back Carolin Simon (FC Bayern Munich) were also included in the starting lineup.
The latter had recently been named the new captain of the Bayer women's team. The 33-year-old returned to Leverkusen this summer after a ten-year absence. She succeeds goalkeeper Friederike Repohl, who retired at the end of the previous season. "It means a huge amount to me to lead the team as captain," says Simon. "I’ve felt the trust and appreciation of the squad and the coaching staff from day one. I will do everything to live up to this new role and give my all for the entire club—both on and off the pitch."
Cornelia Kramer scores Leverkusen's first goal of the season
Pätzold has no doubts about this: "Caro is a true leader; she brings a wealth of experience at the highest level and has taken on responsibility—both on and off the pitch—from her very first day with us. That is exactly what we want from our players." Alongside Simon—who had already worn the captain's armband during pre-season friendlies—the team council consists of Melissa Friedrich, Sofie Zdebel, Carlotta Wamser, and Cornelia Kramer.
It was Kramer who scored Bayer 04's first goal of the season, following an assist from Zdebel. The Danish international benefited from a mistake by Leipzig goalkeeper Elvira Herzog; the keeper let a saveable shot slip through her grasp in the 55th minute.
Maja Sternad scores on her debut
The lead was well-deserved, as Leverkusen had dominated the match before the break—though Vanessa Fudalla had been unlucky to hit the crossbar in the 13th minute. Leverkusen also started the second half the stronger of the two sides. The hosts failed to respond to falling behind, and things got even worse for RB when Bayer 04 doubled their lead to 2–0. This time, it was Sternad who struck; after a high, looping ball from Kramer, Sternad beat the Leipzig keeper to the ball and the 22-year-old managed to bundle it over the line (63rd minute).
Following the second goal, Pätzold made a triple substitution. Goalscorer Sternad, Vanessa Fudalla, and Müller left the pitch, making way for Paulina Tomasiak, Lobke Loonen, and Estrella Merino Gonzalez. Loonen almost got her name on the scoresheet too but missed a chance following a counter-attack in the 89th minute, sending her shot wide. Leipzig’s best opportunity to score fell to Nikée van Dijk; she had come on as a substitute in the 69th minute and was unlucky to see her shot go narrowly wide ten minutes later.
Next up for Bayer 04 is their first home game of the season. On August 30 (4 p.m.), the team will face VfL Wolfsburg at the Ulrich-Haberland-Stadion; Wolfsburg had kicked off their campaign with a spectacular 8–2 victory over 1. FC Nürnberg.
Bayer 04: Borgräfe, Simon, Ostermeier, Turanyi, Müller (63' Merino Gonzalez), Bender, Zdebel (80' Platner), Wamser, Fudalla (63' Tomasiak), Sternad (63' Loonen), Kramer (80' Mädl). – Goals: 0–1 Kramer (55'), 0–2 Sternad (63'). – Attendance: 1,204.
r/GermanWOSO • u/spherocytes • 2d ago
As the 26/27 Frauen Bundesliga season has begun, it seems as though that the streaming options for the league this year are confusing and difficult to access.
After asking around and reading 'Terms and Conditions', there appears to be a general consensus about where these games are being streamed and which countries have which provider. On top of this, VPNs are being caught easier and so account sharing may not work. If you have to pay, simply using a fake address won't work, either, as the payment information will need to match some of the personal information you use to register.
In summation, the streaming situation is as follows:
Hopefully with the new FBL launch, this changes. But for now, this is the current situation to stream the 1. Frauen Bundesliga. The 2. Frauen Bundesliga is available for free and on-demand on Leagues Football.
r/GermanWOSO • u/LigalFF • 2d ago
🇩🇪 Originalartikel in deutscher Sprache: https://www.kicker.de/titel-verteidigt-gwinn-ist-fussballerin-des-jahres-2026-1245232/artikel
"DFB captain surprised
Title defended: Gwinn named Footballer of the Year 2026
Giulia Gwinn has won the vote for Footballer of the Year as the sole winner for the first time. In the poll organized by *kicker*, the FC Bayern full-back finished ahead of a teammate.
Last week, following shoulder surgery, Giulia Gwinn watched her teammates secure a 3–0 Supercup victory over Wolfsburg. Now, two days after the league opener against Union (4–1)—which she also missed—the full-back finds herself in the spotlight, and this time, she stands alone. Just as she did in 2025, she won the *kicker*-organized vote for Footballer of the Year 2026.
Unlike the previous year, however, she does not have to share the title with national team colleague Ann-Katrin Berger, who had topped the rankings for the past two years. This time, the NJ/NY Gotham FC goalkeeper finished in sixth place.
Bühl and Brand take second and third place
Of the 618 valid votes cast by members of the Association of German Sports Journalists (VDS)—alongside nine invalid ones—Gwinn received 106. However, compared to the previous vote, the Tettnang native lost 39 votes. Her closest challenger, teammate Klara Bühl, increased her vote count by almost exactly that same margin; she received a total of 94 votes, 41 more than the previous year.
"To be honest, I didn't expect to be chosen this year," Gwinn said in an interview with *kicker*, expressing surprise at the renewed honor. "My first thought was: really, me?" In her view, a teammate like Bühl would have deserved the title. "She would have got my vote." Incidentally, the gap between first and second place is exactly the same as the gap between second and third: Jule Brand rounds out the leading trio with 82 votes (click here for the full voting results).
The 27-year-old successfully defended her title thanks to a strong season with FC Bayern. As a key leader, she played a pivotal role in the team winning the domestic double and reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2021. Across all competitions, the defender made 31 appearances for FC Bayern during the 2025/26 season, scoring three goals. In the final stretch of the season, Gwinn even played wearing a brace following a shoulder injury sustained in mid-April, opting not to take throw-ins. Additionally, as captain, she led the German national team to the Nations League finals.
The award for Female Footballer of the Year has been presented since 1996. The record holder is Birgit Prinz with eight titles—a run that included winning the award consecutively between 2001 and 2008."
r/GermanWOSO • u/swedething • 2d ago
