Union Berlin return empty-handed from the record World Cup. While FIFA’s bonus for Khedira’s participation amounts to €150,000, Tunisia’s World Cup campaign for the Union players ended in three defeats in the group stage – and that was already on June 26. 1. FC Union Berlin now face the new season knowing one thing: midfielder Rani Khedira is back from vacation early and can join the preseason training. Stand: 11th in Bundesliga, 0 points.
What happened at the World Cup for Union?
Rani Khedira, Union’s vice-captain, was the only Union player at the World Cup in North America. The midfielder had switched allegiances to Tunisia just before the tournament and made his debut for the North Africans. But after defeats to Sweden, Japan and the Netherlands (1:3 on June 26), Tunisia were out after the group stage. For Union, that means Khedira misses only part of the preseason – and will rejoin Mauro Lustrinelli’s training session this coming Monday.
FIFA’s club compensation for national-team players was revised downward. Instead of the initially projected €236,500, Union receive around €150,000. Bayern Munich top the list with €2.3 million, while only Cologne (just under €50,000) and the promoted sides Paderborn and Elversberg trail Union.
Why the World Cup barely affects Union
On the pitch, the World Cup was a flop for Tunisia – and therefore for Union. Khedira returns early, yet Union’s preseason had already begun on July 1. The 32-year-old remains a key figure in the squad and is expected to keep that role under Lustrinelli. The FIFA bonus is a minor side benefit: what matters is Khedira’s prompt return to team training.
Union currently sit 11th in the Bundesliga – without a point or a goal. Goals this season: 0 scored, 0 conceded (0 goal difference).
Chris Bedia leaves Union for good
Beyond the World Cup disappointment, Union face another departure: Chris Bedia leaves the Eisernen after the end of his loan. The striker is off – another change in the squad Lustrinelli is now shaping.
What’s next for Union?
Khedira returns to training on Monday and can take part in the preseason. The €150,000 FIFA bonus is small consolation, but the focus is on the new season. Union open their Bundesliga campaign on August 16 against SC Freiburg. The Eisernen need to shore up their defense – they have yet to score or concede a goal.
Preseason began on July 1, and the World Cup delay through Khedira was minimal. Mauro Lustrinelli now has the chance to build his team without further disruption. The first competitive games are near – and Union badly need points.
