Fortuna Düsseldorf hit by transfer setbacks and early test‑match loss before new season

Fortuna Düsseldorf entered the 2026 pre‑season with a series of setbacks. A near‑completed transfer of 23‑year‑old midfielder Elias Egouli to SV Elversberg collapsed at the last minute, and forward Yannik Engelhardt left for SC Freiburg on a very low fee, eliminating any resale‑clause revenue for the club. The team then suffered a 0‑2 defeat against LASK Linz in a friendly, ending their preparation on a sour note.

Amid the turbulence, new signing Yassine Bouchama emerged as a central figure in the squad. The 29‑year‑old midfielder, originally from Essen, said, “I have consciously chosen Fortuna,” explaining that proximity to home and the club’s vision convinced him to reject offers from other second‑division sides. Coach Alexander Ende and sport director Samir Arabi have highlighted Bouchama’s role as a key linking element as the club seeks promotion back to the top tier.