Holstein Kiel Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Overview
Holstein Kiel, one of Germany’s most exciting football clubs, has consistently punched above its weight in recent years. Known for their attacking style of play and ability to nurture young talent, the Storks have built a reputation as a formidable side in the 2. Bundesliga and beyond. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the club has assembled a balanced and dynamic squad, blending experienced campaigners with promising youngsters. This post delves into the intricacies of the Holstein Kiel squad, providing an in-depth analysis of each player, their backgrounds, and their potential impact on the upcoming campaign.
Goalkeepers
- Thomas Dähne
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Eintracht Frankfurt, Dynamo Dresden, FC Ingolstadt
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
Thomas Dähne is a seasoned goalkeeper with a wealth of experience in German football. Known for his commanding presence in the box and exceptional shot-stopping abilities, Dähne has been a reliable figure between the sticks for Holstein Kiel since his arrival. His leadership and ability to organize the defense have been instrumental in the team’s success. At 30 years old, he remains a vital part of the squad, providing stability and composure in high-pressure situations.
- Timon Weiner
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: FC Bayern Munich II, VfL Osnabrück
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
Timon Weiner, a rising star in German football, joined Holstein Kiel in 2023 after impressing at VfL Osnabrück. At just 22 years old, Weiner has already showcased his potential with remarkable reflexes and excellent distribution skills. His ability to play out from the back aligns perfectly with Kiel’s tactical philosophy. Weiner is seen as the long-term successor to Dähne and is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming season.
- Jonas Urbig
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Greuther Fürth (youth), 1. FC Nürnberg (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Jonas Urbig, a highly-rated young goalkeeper, joined Holstein Kiel on loan from Greuther Fürth for the 2024/25 season. The 21-year-old shot-stopper has already gained valuable experience in the 2. Bundesliga and is known for his agility and quick decision-making. Urbig’s arrival provides depth to the goalkeeping department and offers him a platform to further develop his skills.
Defenders
- Simon Lorenz
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: FC St. Pauli, VfL Osnabrück
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2022)
Simon Lorenz is a towering central defender who has been a mainstay in Holstein Kiel’s backline since his arrival in 2022. Standing at 6’4”, Lorenz is dominant in aerial duels and possesses a keen sense of positioning. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has made him a fan favorite. Lorenz’s leadership qualities and experience make him an indispensable part of the squad.
- Marvin Schulz
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: RB Leipzig (youth), FC Hansa Rostock
- Transfer Fee: €800,000 (2023)
Marvin Schulz is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and a right-back. Known for his pace and technical ability, Schulz is a modern defender who excels in one-on-one situations. His ability to contribute to the attack with overlapping runs and precise crosses adds an extra dimension to Kiel’s play. At 24 years old, Schulz is entering his prime and is expected to play a key role in the upcoming season.
- Jannik Dehm
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Karlsruher SC, FC Ingolstadt
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Jannik Dehm is a dynamic left-back who joined Holstein Kiel in 2023 after a successful stint at Karlsruher SC. Dehm is known for his tireless work rate, defensive solidity, and ability to deliver dangerous crosses into the box. His understanding of the game and tactical discipline make him a reliable option for the left flank. Dehm’s experience in the 2. Bundesliga adds valuable depth to the squad.
- Marko Ivezic
- Nationality: Croatian
- Former Clubs: Dinamo Zagreb, HNK Gorica
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2024)
Marko Ivezic, a recent addition to the squad, is a highly-rated Croatian defender known for his composure on the ball and ability to play out from the back. The 23-year-old center-back has already made a strong impression in pre-season with his intelligent positioning and physicality. Ivezic’s arrival bolsters Holstein Kiel’s defensive options and provides competition for starting spots.
- Philipp Sander
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Werder Bremen (youth), VfL Osnabrück
- Transfer Fee: €600,000 (2024)
Philipp Sander is a promising young right-back who joined Holstein Kiel in 2024. Known for his attacking prowess and defensive tenacity, Sander is a well-rounded full-back with a bright future. His ability to contribute to both ends of the pitch makes him a valuable asset for the team. At just 21 years old, Sander is expected to develop further under the guidance of the coaching staff.
Midfielders
- Lewis Holtby
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Tottenham Hotspur, Hamburger SV, Blackburn Rovers
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
Lewis Holtby is a seasoned midfielder and one of the most experienced players in the Holstein Kiel Squad. Known for his vision, passing range, and set-piece expertise, Holtby has been a key figure in the team’s midfield since his arrival. His leadership on and off the pitch has been invaluable, and his ability to control the tempo of the game makes him a vital cog in the team’s engine room.
- Finn Porath
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Werder Bremen (youth), FC St. Pauli
- Transfer Fee: €400,000 (2022)
Finn Porath is a versatile midfielder who can operate in both attacking and defensive roles. Known for his energy, work rate, and ability to break up play, Porath has become a fan favorite at Holstein Kiel. His knack for scoring crucial goals from midfield adds an extra dimension to his game. At 24 years old, Porath is entering his prime and is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming season.
- Tom Rothe
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Borussia Dortmund (youth), Holstein Kiel (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Tom Rothe, a highly-rated young left-back, joined Holstein Kiel on loan from Borussia Dortmund for the 2024/25 season. The 19-year-old is known for his attacking flair, defensive solidity, and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses. Rothe’s arrival provides depth to the left-back position and offers him a platform to gain valuable first-team experience.
- Steven Skrzybski
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: FC Schalke 04, Union Berlin
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Steven Skrzybski is a dynamic winger who joined Holstein Kiel in 2023 after a successful spell at Union Berlin. Known for his pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal, Skrzybski has been a key contributor to the team’s attacking play. His ability to create chances and score goals makes him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Skrzybski’s experience and quality add a new dimension to Kiel’s attack.
- Joshua Mees
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: RB Leipzig (youth), FC Erzgebirge Aue
- Transfer Fee: €300,000 (2024)
Joshua Mees is a promising young midfielder who joined Holstein Kiel in 2024. Known for his technical ability, vision, and passing range, Mees is a creative force in the middle of the park. His ability to dictate play and create chances for his teammates makes him a valuable addition to the squad. At just 22 years old, Mees has a bright future ahead of him.
Forwards
- Benedikt Pichler
- Nationality: Austrian
- Former Clubs: Admira Wacker, FC Liefering
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2022)
Benedikt Pichler is a prolific striker who has been a key figure in Holstein Kiel’s attack since his arrival in 2022. Known for his clinical finishing, movement off the ball, and ability to hold up play, Pichler has consistently delivered goals for the team. His partnership with the midfielders and wingers has been a cornerstone of Kiel’s attacking success. Pichler’s experience and goal-scoring prowess make him a vital asset for the upcoming season.
- Kwasi Okyere Wriedt
- Nationality: Ghanaian
- Former Clubs: Bayern Munich II, Willem II
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Kwasi Okyere Wriedt is a versatile forward who joined Holstein Kiel in 2023. Known for his pace, strength, and ability to play across the front line, Wriedt has been a valuable addition to the squad. His ability to score goals and create chances for his teammates makes him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Wriedt’s experience and quality add depth to Kiel’s attacking options.
- Shuto Machino
- Nationality: Japanese
- Former Clubs: Shonan Bellmare, Yokohama F. Marinos
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2024)
Shuto Machino, a recent signing from Japan, is a highly-rated forward known for his technical ability, movement, and goal-scoring prowess. The 23-year-old has already made a strong impression in pre-season with his intelligent play and ability to link up with his teammates. Machino’s arrival adds a new dimension to Holstein Kiel’s attack and provides competition for starting spots.
- Nicolas Kuhn
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Bayern Munich (youth), Rapid Vienna
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2024)
Nicolas Kuhn is a versatile forward who joined Holstein Kiel in 2024. Known for his pace, dribbling skills, and ability to play across the front line, Kuhn is a dynamic attacker with a bright future. His ability to create chances and score goals makes him a valuable addition to the squad. At just 24 years old, Kuhn is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Holstein Kiel squad is a blend of experience, youth, and talent, carefully assembled to compete at the highest level. With a strong core of players in every position, the Storks are well-equipped to challenge for promotion and make a mark in German football. The addition of exciting new signings, coupled with the development of young talents, ensures that Holstein Kiel remains a team to watch in the upcoming season. As the campaign unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and memorable moments from this dynamic and ambitious squad.
