Analysing Werder Bremen's chances of success in season 2015-16

Analysing Werder Bremen's chances of success in season 2015-16

0
SHARE

Ahead of the looming Bundesliga campaign, we take a look at the fortunes of SV Werder Bremen as it gears up for another season at the Weserstadion.

Last time around

Finishing the season in a respectable 10th place, only missing out on a Europa League spot thanks to a final day defeat at the hands of Borussia Dortmund, is something that the Bremen faithful can take pride in after starting the season with no wins from the opening nine fixtures. Following a resurgence under new boss Viktor Skrypnyk, the Green-Whites enjoyed a fairly smooth campaign led by star men Franco Di Santo and Zlakto Junuzovic.

What’s New?

Skrypnyk has wasted no time through the summer months so far, bringing four new faces into the club. Goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald has joined from Eintracht Frankfurt on a free to provide direct competition to current number one Raphael Wolf, who was, at times, unconvincing last term. Swiss left-back Ulisses Garcia has joined from Grasshoppers and will look to immediately cement a spot in the starting XI. Nineteen-year-old attacking midfielder Levin Oztunali has been brought in on loan from Leverkusen to add a creative spark in the team’s engine room. The signing of former FC Cologne front man Anthony Ujah for €4.5 million could prove to be a masterstroke in the hope that the Nigerian can gel with fan favourite Di Santo to lead the line for Bremen. Overall, the new additions will add much needed depth in key areas of the pitch, come the grind of a difficult campaign.

Key man

Austrian midfielder Junuzovic has not only established himself in the heart of Bremen’s midfield but also as one of the most consistent performers in the Bundesliga. At 27 years of age, it would not be surprising if the likes of Wolfsburg or a host of Premier League clubs came calling in January. Providing six goals and 12 assists last term, it is not only going forward where he impresses but in defence as well, contributing an average of 1.8 tackles and clearances per match. Skrypnyk will be relying on the former Austria Wien man to hold things together in the thick of the action for Werder. 

Potential Problems

The loss of Austrian centre-back Sebastian Prodl on a free to Premier League new boys Watford has left a gaping hole in Bremen’s back four that Prodl had filled for the past seven seasons. Skrypnyk is yet to move to bring in a replacement centre-back and could risk missing out on an adequate replacement if left too late. A second major problem is the lack of creative talent on the flanks. With Dutch winger Eljero Elia looking to make his loan deal to Southampton permanent, Skrypnyk is left with Bosnian Izet Hajrovic to provide out wide and after a hugely disappointing first season at the Weserstadion, new wingers should be a high priority for Bremen.

Verdict

It is difficult to forecast what to expect from Bremen this season. The new additions are somewhat pleasing, however more work is needed in the transfer market to ensure the club is not dragged into a relegation battle come the business end of the season.

[interaction id=”559e79339831cbaa2151b840″]

What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.

LEAVE A REPLY