Union Berlin Squad 2024/25

Union Berlin has established itself as one of the most resilient and ambitious clubs in European football. Known for their passionate fanbase, tactical discipline, and shrewd recruitment, the club has consistently punched above its weight in recent years. The 2024/25 season promises to be another exciting chapter in their journey, with a squad that blends experienced campaigners, emerging talents, and strategic signings. This post provides an in-depth look at the Union Berlin Squad for the upcoming season, breaking it down into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Each player is profiled in detail, including their nationality, career trajectory, transfer history, and key attributes.

Goalkeepers

1. Frederik Rønnow

  • Nationality: Danish
  • Former Clubs: FC Midtjylland, Brøndby IF, Eintracht Frankfurt, Schalke 04
  • Transfer Fee: €3 million (2021, Schalke 04)

Frederik Rønnow has been a cornerstone of Union Berlin’s defensive solidity since joining the club. Known for his commanding presence, sharp reflexes, and ability to organize the backline, Rønnow has earned a reputation as one of the Bundesliga’s most reliable shot-stoppers. His distribution has improved significantly, making him a key component in Union’s build-up play. Rønnow’s experience in both domestic and European competitions has been invaluable, and he remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper.

2. Lennart Grill

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: Bayer Leverkusen, FC Viktoria Köln (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2023)

Lennart Grill, a promising young goalkeeper, serves as Rønnow’s understudy. Having come through the ranks at Bayer Leverkusen, Grill joined Union Berlin to gain more first-team opportunities. His agility and shot-stopping ability have impressed in limited appearances, and he is seen as a long-term successor to Rønnow. Grill’s ability to play out from the back aligns perfectly with Union’s tactical philosophy.

3. Andreas Luthe

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: VFL Bochum, FC Augsburg, MSV Duisburg
  • Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2020)

Andreas Luthe, the veteran goalkeeper, provides depth and experience to the squad. While no longer the first choice, Luthe’s leadership and mentorship are highly valued within the team. His familiarity with the club’s culture and his ability to step up when called upon make him a reliable backup option.

Defenders

1. Robin Knoche

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: VfL Wolfsburg
  • Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2020)

Robin Knoche is the defensive linchpin of Union Berlin. A composed and intelligent center-back, Knoche’s reading of the game and ability to intercept opposition attacks are second to none. His leadership qualities have made him a fan favorite, and his experience in the Bundesliga has been crucial in Union’s rise. Knoche’s versatility allows him to play in a back three or four, making him indispensable.

2. Diogo Leite

  • Nationality: Portuguese
  • Former Clubs: FC Porto, SC Braga (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: €5 million (2023)

Diogo Leite has quickly established himself as a key figure in Union’s defense since his arrival from FC Porto. The Portuguese defender combines physicality with technical ability, excelling in both aerial duels and ball distribution. His partnership with Knoche has been instrumental in Union’s defensive success, and his potential for growth makes him a valuable asset.

3. Danilho Doekhi

  • Nationality: Dutch
  • Former Clubs: Vitesse Arnhem
  • Transfer Fee: €3 million (2022)

Danilho Doekhi has been a revelation since joining Union Berlin. The Dutch defender’s towering presence and ability to play out from the back have made him a perfect fit for the team’s style. Doekhi’s knack for scoring crucial goals from set-pieces adds an extra dimension to his game, and his consistency has earned him widespread acclaim.

4. Niko Gießelmann

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: Fortuna Düsseldorf, Greuther Fürth
  • Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2020)

Niko Gießelmann is a versatile left-back who offers both defensive solidity and attacking impetus. His tireless work rate and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses have made him a key contributor in Union’s system. Gießelmann’s experience and reliability make him a dependable option in the squad.

5. Josip Juranović

  • Nationality: Croatian
  • Former Clubs: Celtic, Legia Warsaw
  • Transfer Fee: €8 million (2023)

Josip Juranović, the Croatian right-back, has been a standout performer since his arrival from Celtic. Known for his attacking flair, defensive awareness, and set-piece expertise, Juranović has added a new dimension to Union’s play. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him one of the most complete full-backs in the league.

6. Jerome Roussillon

Jerome Roussillon provides competition for Gießelmann at left-back. The Frenchman’s pace, crossing ability, and defensive acumen make him a valuable asset. Roussillon’s experience in top European leagues adds depth and quality to Union’s defensive options.

Midfielders

1. Rani Khedira

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: RB Leipzig, FC Augsburg.
  • Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)

Rani Khedira is the engine of Union Berlin’s midfield. The German midfielder’s tactical intelligence, ball-winning ability, and composure under pressure have been pivotal to the team’s success. Khedira’s leadership and experience make him a key figure in the squad, and his ability to dictate the tempo of the game is unmatched.

2. Aïssa Laïdouni

  • Nationality: Tunisian
  • Former Clubs: Ferencváros
  • Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)

Aïssa Laïdouni has been a revelation since joining Union Berlin. The Tunisian midfielder’s energy, tenacity, and technical ability have made him a fan favorite. Laïdouni’s ability to break up play and drive forward with the ball has added a new dynamic to Union’s midfield, and his performances have attracted interest from top clubs.

3. Janik Haberer

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: SC Freiburg, Fortuna Düsseldorf
  • Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)

Janik Haberer is a versatile midfielder who can play in multiple roles. His work rate, passing range, and ability to contribute defensively and offensively make him a valuable asset. Haberer’s experience and consistency have been crucial in Union’s midfield setup.

4. András Schäfer

  • Nationality: Hungarian
  • Former Clubs: Dunajská Streda, Genoa.
  • Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2022)

András Schäfer is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder who has impressed with his energy and technical ability. The Hungarian international’s ability to cover ground and contribute in both halves of the pitch has made him a key player for Union. Schäfer’s potential for growth makes him an exciting prospect.

5. Brenden Aaronson

Brenden Aaronson brings creativity and flair to Union Berlin’s midfield. The American playmaker’s dribbling, vision, and ability to unlock defenses have added a new dimension to the team’s attack. Aaronson’s versatility allows him to play in multiple positions, making him a valuable asset.

Forwards

1. Kevin Behrens

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: SV Sandhausen, FC Ingolstadt
  • Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)

Kevin Behrens is a hardworking forward who has become a cult hero at Union Berlin. His physicality, aerial ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals have made him a key player. Behrens’ selfless work rate and ability to hold up the ball make him an ideal fit for Union’s system.

2. Sheraldo Becker

  • Nationality: Surinamese
  • Former Clubs: PEC Zwolle, ADO Den Haag, Ajax.
  • Transfer Fee: €1 million (2019)

Sheraldo Becker is a dynamic winger known for his pace, dribbling, and eye for goal. The Surinamese international’s ability to stretch defenses and create chances has been crucial for Union. Becker’s versatility allows him to play on either flank or as a central striker, making him a valuable asset.

3. Jordan Siebatcheu

  • Nationality: American
  • Former Clubs: Stade Reims, Young Boys, Rennes.
  • Transfer Fee: €6 million (2023)

Jordan Siebatcheu, also known as Pefok, is a powerful striker who has made a significant impact since joining Union Berlin. His physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing have made him a key contributor. Siebatcheu’s ability to score in big moments has endeared him to the fans.

4. Mikkel Kaufmann

  • Nationality: Danish
  • Former Clubs: FC Copenhagen, Austria Wien (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2023)

Mikkel Kaufmann is a young striker with immense potential. The Danish forward’s movement, technical ability, and eye for goal have impressed in limited appearances. Kaufmann’s development is closely monitored, and he is seen as a future star for Union Berlin.

Conclusion

Union Berlin’s squad for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and tactical versatility. Each player brings unique qualities that contribute to the team’s collective strength. With a solid defensive foundation, a dynamic midfield, and a potent attack, Union Berlin is well-equipped to compete on multiple fronts. The club’s ability to identify and develop talent, coupled with their unwavering team spirit, ensures that they remain a force to be reckoned with in European football. As the new season unfolds, fans can look forward to another thrilling campaign filled with passion, determination, and memorable moments.