1. FC Köln faces injury setbacks and transfer interest

1. FC Köln is navigating a challenging period marked by player injuries and potential winter transfer activity. Striker Ragnar Ache has begun ‘partially integrated’ training following a muscle injury, though his availability for the upcoming match against FC Schalke 04 remains uncertain. Conversely, defender Joel Schmied is sidelined due to an injury sustained during the recent match against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Other players, including Timo Hübers, Thijs Dallinga, Ellyes Skhiri, Rav van den Berg, and Imad Rondic, continue rehabilitation work. Following a 1-0 loss to Frankfurt, the club is looking toward the winter transfer window to bolster its squad. Sporting director Thomas Kessler is reportedly eyeing the Premier League, with Leeds United player Lukas Nmecha identified as a potential target, though his high salary and potential competition from other Bundesliga clubs present financial challenges.