Andrej Kramarić faces reduced playing time at Hoffenheim

Andrej Kramarić, the Croatian striker and Hoffenheim's all-time leading scorer, is experiencing a decline in his role within the German club. The 35-year-old has transitioned from an indispensable starter to a potential substitute, as evidenced by his recent match statistics.

In his last three appearances, Kramarić has only started once, in a Europa League match against Beşiktaş. In recent Bundesliga fixtures against HSV and Borussia Mönchengladbach, he either entered late or remained on the bench. This loss of status is attributed to a groin surgery that caused him to miss the entire summer preseason, leaving him struggling to regain competitive rhythm.

Hoffenheim coach Christian Ilzer addressed the situation, stating that while Kramarić possesses the experience and quality to decide matches, playing time cannot be gifted. Ilzer emphasized that minutes must be earned through performances in training and matches, noting that the missed preseason remains a significant handicap for the player's form.