1. FC Köln Bids Farewell to Four Professionals as Uncertain Future Looms
Cologne, Germany – 1. FC Köln, the German football club, has officially bid farewell to four professionals who are seeking to continue their careers in professional football. However, as of now, none of them have announced their new clubs.
Among the departing players, there have been ongoing rumors surrounding the future of star player Ellyes Skhiri (28). It is believed that AC Milan has offered the Tunisian midfielder a lucrative three-year contract, with an option for a fourth season, worth a net salary of two million euros. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Timo Horn (30) is considering a move to either the Netherlands or Belgium.
One player who has attracted interest from several first division clubs is Sebastian Andersson (31). According to Swedish newspaper “Expressen,” the striker has received offers from IFK Norrköping, IF Elfsborg, and AIK Solna. Andersson, who hails from Sweden, is keen on returning to his home country.
Andersson’s football journey began at Ängelholms FF and took him to 1. FC Kaiserslautern in Germany in 2017, via stints at Kalmar FF, Djurgarden, and Norrköping. His most successful years came between 2018 and 2020 at Union Berlin, where he scored twelve goals in both the second division and the Bundesliga.
In the summer of 2020, 1. FC Köln signed Andersson for 6.5 million euros, hoping to find a suitable replacement for striker Jhon Cordoba (30). However, due to persistent knee problems and multiple surgeries, Andersson’s time at the club was plagued by injuries. He only managed to play 47 competitive games for FC, with his last appearance dating back to April 1, 2022. One of his standout moments was scoring a crucial double in the relegation playoffs against Kiel.
Despite the interest from Norrköping, Elfsborg, and AIK, reports from Sweden suggest that concerns over Andersson’s medical history have limited the clubs’ enthusiasm for signing him. It remains to be seen how potential new employers will assess his condition.
It is worth noting that in September 2022, Andersson underwent a controversial meniscus operation in Copenhagen, at his own request, which led to months of rehabilitation. The striker claims to be free of pain now, but his fitness will undoubtedly be a factor in determining his future prospects.
How will 1. FC Köln address the void left by the departure of Marco Höger in the midfield during the upcoming transfer window
Red a contract to Skhiri, but as of now, no official confirmation has been made. Skhiri, who joined 1. FC Köln in 2018, has been a key player for the team, making 86 appearances and scoring 10 goals during his tenure.
Another player bidding farewell is Jannes Horn (24), who has been with the club since 2017. Horn, a talented left-back, has been a consistent performer for Köln and has attracted interest from several clubs, both in Germany and abroad. However, his destination remains unknown at this time.
In addition, midfielder Marco Höger (31) is also parting ways with 1. FC Köln after spending eight seasons with the club. Höger, known for his versatility and experience, has contributed greatly to the team both on and off the pitch. His departure leaves a void in the midfield that the club will need to address in the upcoming transfer window.
Finally, goalkeeper Thomas Kessler (35) will also be leaving the club. Kessler has been a loyal servant to 1. FC Köln since 2010, making 85 appearances over the years. Despite spending most of his time as a backup, Kessler has always remained professional and has been an important figure in the squad.
As these players bid farewell to 1. FC Köln, the club faces an uncertain future. With key departures and an ongoing search for new talent, Köln will be looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season. The club’s management and coaching staff will need to carefully analyze their options and make strategic decisions to ensure the team remains competitive.
The departure of these four professionals marks the end of an era for 1. FC Köln and highlights the transitional period the club is currently undergoing. As fans anxiously wait for new signings and developments, they can only hope that the club can build a strong team capable of achieving success in the future.
It’s concerning to see 1. FC Köln’s professionals without new clubs, but the Skhiri rumors for AC Milan and Andersson’s return to Sweden give hope for some positive changes. Fingers crossed for their successful transitions!