Cologne coach Struber puts the brakes on Pichler rumors: What's behind it?

Cologne coach Struber puts the brakes on Pichler rumors: What's behind it?

A rumor is causing excitement at 1. FC Köln that revolves around the possible winter transfer of Benedikt Pichler. The striker from Holstein Kiel, who was recently not in the squad due to sporting reasons, is strongly associated with the billy goats. Coach Gerhard Struber commented on these speculations and explained: "He's a player I know from my past. But I'm not currently dealing with him." In doing so, he dampened expectations of an impending transfer and made it clear that no agreement had yet been reached. According to that BITTBLOG Pichler was originally one of the candidates for Cologne's offensive, while those responsible have already signed two new defensive players.

However, the search for an attacker remains the club's focus. After the change of central defender Joël Schmied, which only became official this Monday, Struber emphasized that negotiations for high-quality players are often associated with hurdles, especially in the winter transfer window. His goal is not to add to the squad too quickly, but rather to look specifically for the right players. “Now we have finished one thing, we are now trying to concentrate on something new,” said Struber. With a clear prioritization of transfers, confidence in the existing squad seems unbroken when it comes to the need for a quick change in attack.

Pichler may be a familiar name for Struber, but Cologne's position is clear: “The quick solution” is not what we are aiming for. At the moment the focus is on finding the best options for expanding the squad without having to make compromises. It remains to be seen whether Benedikt Pichler is part of these considerations.