SpVgg Greuther Fürth kicked off their pre-season with a 3-1 win over Eintracht Bamberg, but the 2. Bundesliga campaign starts on August 9 with 0 points and a 16th-place ranking. New signing Ole Pohlmann (25) wasn’t yet in action, but the midfielder—who trained at VfL Wolfsburg and Borussia Dortmund—has signed until 2029.

Why the Bamberg win still matters

The club’s third friendly in seven days ended with a victory, but head coach Heiko Vogel admitted: «The first two weeks were physically demanding—we’re still feeling the fatigue.» Still, Fürth dominated early with Paul Will (8’), Shinta Appelkamp (17’), and Aaron Keller (23’) scoring, while Tim Gensichen (6’) put Bamberg ahead. However, the team left chances unexploited—something they usually capitalize on.

Who’s missing—and who’s joining?

Ole Pohlmann, signed from Portuguese side Rio Ave the day before, didn’t play. The former German youth international, who made two Bundesliga appearances for Borussia Dortmund, brings experience. Lukas Reich and Sacha Bansé sat out due to recovery days, while Mathias Olesen, released just a year after joining from 1. FC Köln, has now moved to Sønderjyske. Defender Philipp Ziereis also left this week for Melbourne Victory.

What’s next for the Kleeblatt?

The season opener is a home game against VfL Bochum on February 20, 2027—currently 9th in the table—after their August 9 away match at FC St. Pauli. With 0 goals scored or conceded so far, the team faces a tough start. Yet Vogel remains optimistic: «The players enjoy playing together—that’s the foundation.»