Eintracht Frankfurt squandered a 3-1 lead to draw 3-3 with Union Berlin at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei last weekend. According to a report by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, the result exposed defensive frailties and triggered internal discussions about the squad's quality ahead of the transfer deadline.
Why did Frankfurt fail to hold onto their lead?
Captain Robin Koch pointed to a lack of experience and composure under pressure in his young backline. Alongside him, Bundesliga debutants Keita Kosugi and Jeremiaha Maluze, plus Elias Baum, who previously only had loan experience in the second division, had collectively played just five top-flight games. Manager Adi Hütter tried to calm proceedings by introducing teenagers Malik Pimpong, Love Arrhov, Oscar Höjlund and new signing Otávio, but the plan failed. "Union almost overwhelmed us," Hütter admitted.
What are the consequences for the club?
Hütter has made it clear internally that the current squad quality does not match the plans outlined when he returned to the club. "We're certainly still missing something," the coach stated. Sporting director Markus Krösche is now working on reinforcements before the transfer window closes on Tuesday evening. Per the F.A.Z., the signing of 26-year-old French defender Lilian Brassier from Stade Rennes is imminent, with a fee in the high single-digit millions expected.
What is Union Berlin's current standing?
While Frankfurt dissects its performance, Union Berlin can reflect on a solid previous campaign. The club finished the 2025 Bundesliga season in 11th place with 39 points from 10 wins, 9 draws, and 15 losses. Their goal difference of minus 14 came from 44 scored and 58 conceded. This left them 50 points behind champions Bayern Munich. Union's next challenge is a home fixture against third-placed RB Leipzig on 21 November 2026, as listed in our fixtures.
What does this mean for the remaining transfers?
In addition to Brassier, Frankfurt aims to sign another forward to provide cover for strikers Jonathan Burkardt and Younes Ebnoutalib, who scored a hat-trick in the 3-3 draw. Several departures are also likely. Jean-Matteo Bahoya and Ritsu Doan could leave if suitable offers arrive. The exits of goalkeeper Michael Zetterer to Leeds United and defender Arthur Theate, who joins Bologna on loan until 2027, are already confirmed. The evolving squad composition can be tracked on our squad page.
How has the club leadership responded to speculation?
President Mathias Beck dismissed rumours about the potential dismissal of sporting director Markus Krösche. The supervisory board meeting scheduled for this week is a regular event. "The fact is, he has a contract until 2028," Beck said. Krösche himself declined to comment on a report from "Bild" newspaper, instead referencing his preference for last-minute deals on deadline day. The team's sporting development remains the core focus, with the current standings providing the baseline for the new season.
