Eintracht Frankfurt Forwards 2024/25
Eintracht Frankfurt, one of Germany’s most storied football clubs, has consistently been a hub for dynamic and talented forwards. The 2024/25 season is no exception, as the club boasts a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young prospects. This season’s attacking lineup reflects the club’s ambition to compete on multiple fronts, including the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and European competitions. Below, we take an in-depth look at each forward currently donning the iconic white and black stripes of Eintracht Frankfurt, exploring their backgrounds, playing styles, and contributions to the team.
1. Randal Kolo Muani
Nationality: French
Transfer Fee: €9.5 million (from FC Nantes, 2022)
Former Clubs: FC Nantes, AS Boulogne.
Randal Kolo Muani has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting forwards in European football. The Frenchman, known for his blistering pace and clinical finishing, joined Eintracht Frankfurt from FC Nantes in 2022 and has since become a cornerstone of the team’s attack. Standing at 6’2”, Kolo Muani combines physicality with technical finesse, making him a nightmare for defenders. His ability to drift wide and cut inside has added a new dimension to Frankfurt’s play. In the 2023/24 season, he netted 15 goals and provided 10 assists, showcasing his all-around contribution. Kolo Muani’s journey from the lower tiers of French football to the Bundesliga is a testament to his relentless work ethic and determination. His partnership with other forwards has been instrumental in Frankfurt’s recent successes, and at just 25 years old, his best years are still ahead of him.
2. Omar Marmoush
Nationality: Egyptian
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (from VfL Wolfsburg, 2023)
Former Clubs: VfL Wolfsburg, FC St. Pauli (loan), VfB Stuttgart (loan).
Omar Marmoush’s arrival on a free transfer from VfL Wolfsburg in 2023 was a masterstroke by Eintracht Frankfurt’s recruitment team. The Egyptian forward has been a revelation, blending creativity, agility, and a keen eye for goal. Marmoush’s versatility allows him to operate as a central striker or on either wing, providing tactical flexibility for the manager. His dribbling skills and ability to exploit spaces between defenders have made him a fan favorite. In his debut season with Frankfurt, Marmoush contributed 12 goals and 7 assists, proving his worth as a key attacking asset. Having honed his skills in Germany’s lower leagues during loan spells, Marmoush’s rise to prominence is a story of perseverance. His international experience with Egypt also adds a layer of maturity to his game, making him a vital cog in Frankfurt’s forward line.
3. Jessic Ngankam
Nationality: German
Transfer Fee: €4 million (from Hertha BSC, 2023)
Former Clubs: Hertha BSC, Greuther Fürth (loan).
Jessic Ngankam, a product of Hertha BSC’s youth academy, joined Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023 for a modest fee of €4 million. The German forward is a classic poacher, known for his predatory instincts inside the box. Ngankam’s ability to find space and convert half-chances into goals has made him a valuable asset. Despite being just 23 years old, he displays a level of composure that belies his age. His time on loan at Greuther Fürth provided him with the experience needed to thrive in the Bundesliga. Ngankam’s work rate and willingness to press defenders align perfectly with Frankfurt’s high-intensity style of play. While he is still developing, his potential is undeniable, and the 2024/25 season could be a breakout year for the young striker.
4. Ansgar Knauff
Nationality: German
Transfer Fee: €5 million (from Borussia Dortmund, 2023)
Former Clubs: Borussia Dortmund, Eintracht Frankfurt (loan).
Ansgar Knauff’s permanent signing from Borussia Dortmund in 2023 was met with widespread approval from the Eintracht Frankfurt faithful. The German winger, who initially joined on loan, had already endeared himself to fans with his electrifying performances. Knauff’s direct running, combined with his ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, makes him a constant threat on the flanks. His versatility allows him to play on either wing or even as an attacking midfielder. Knauff’s time at Dortmund, where he emerged from their famed youth academy, laid the foundation for his development. At Frankfurt, he has flourished, contributing 8 goals and 6 assists in the 2023/24 season. His understanding of the game and tactical intelligence make him a crucial component of the team’s attacking setup.
5. Paxten Aaronson
Nationality: American
Transfer Fee: €4 million (from Philadelphia Union, 2023)
Former Clubs: Philadelphia Union.
Paxten Aaronson, the younger brother of US international Brenden Aaronson, joined Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023 from MLS side Philadelphia Union. The American forward is a technically gifted player with a knack for finding pockets of space in the final third. Aaronson’s close control and quick feet make him a nightmare for defenders in one-on-one situations. While still adapting to the rigors of European football, he has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in cup competitions. His vision and passing ability have also seen him contribute with key assists. At just 20 years old, Aaronson represents the future of Frankfurt’s attack. His development will be closely monitored, as he has the potential to become a star in the Bundesliga.
6. Nacho Ferri
Nationality: Spanish
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (from Valencia CF, 2023)
Former Clubs: Valencia CF, Málaga CF (loan).
Nacho Ferri, a relatively unknown quantity when he arrived from Valencia CF in 2023, has quickly made a name for himself at Eintracht Frankfurt. The Spanish forward is a versatile attacker capable of playing as a second striker or in a deeper role. Ferri’s technical proficiency and intelligent movement off the ball have made him a valuable asset. His ability to link play between midfield and attack has added a new dimension to Frankfurt’s offensive strategies. Ferri’s time at Valencia, where he struggled for consistent game time, contrasts sharply with his current role as a key player in Frankfurt. With 6 goals and 5 assists in his debut season, Ferri has proven to be a shrewd acquisition. His experience in La Liga has also brought a touch of Spanish flair to the Bundesliga.
7. Lucas Alario
Nationality: Argentine
Transfer Fee: €6 million (from Bayer Leverkusen, 2022)
Former Clubs: Bayer Leverkusen, River Plate.
Lucas Alario, the seasoned Argentine striker, remains a vital part of Eintracht Frankfurt’s forward line. Known for his poaching ability and aerial prowess, Alario has been a consistent source of goals since joining from Bayer Leverkusen in 2022. His experience and leadership qualities have been invaluable, especially in high-pressure situations. Alario’s time at River Plate, where he won multiple titles, laid the foundation for his successful European career. Despite facing competition from younger forwards, he continues to deliver crucial goals. In the 2023/24 season, Alario netted 10 times, demonstrating his enduring quality. His ability to mentor younger players while maintaining high performance levels makes him an indispensable member of the squad.
8. Mehdi Loune
Nationality: French
Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
Former Clubs: None
Mehdi Loune, a product of Eintracht Frankfurt’s youth academy, is one of the most promising talents in the squad. The French forward has risen through the ranks, impressing with his technical ability and goal-scoring instincts. Loune’s versatility allows him to play across the front line, making him a valuable option for the manager. Despite his limited first-team experience, he has shown glimpses of his potential in cup matches and cameo appearances. Loune’s development is a testament to Frankfurt’s commitment to nurturing young talent. As he continues to gain experience, the 19-year-old could become a key figure in the team’s future.
9. Rafael Santos Borré
Nationality: Colombian
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (from River Plate, 2021)
Former Clubs: River Plate, Atlético Madrid (loan), Villarreal (loan).
Rafael Santos Borré, a fan favorite at Eintracht Frankfurt, has been a consistent performer since joining on a free transfer in 2021. The Colombian forward is known for his tireless work rate and ability to score crucial goals. Borré’s time at River Plate, where he won the Copa Libertadores, honed his competitive edge. His versatility allows him to play as a central striker or in a supporting role, making him a valuable asset. Borré’s contributions extend beyond goals, as his pressing and defensive work rate set the tone for the team. With 9 goals and 8 assists in the 2023/24 season, he remains a key player in Frankfurt’s attack.
Conclusion
Eintracht Frankfurt’s forward line for the 2024/25 season is a blend of youth and experience, skill and determination. From the clinical finishing of Randal Kolo Muani to the youthful exuberance of Mehdi Loune, each player brings something unique to the table. The club’s ability to identify and develop talent, both through transfers and its academy, has been a cornerstone of its recent success. As Frankfurt aims to challenge for silverware on multiple fronts, the contributions of these forwards will be pivotal. With a mix of established stars and emerging talents, the future looks bright for Eintracht Frankfurt’s attack.
