“Hintermann!” – Commands that everyone knows

They are often just brief exclamations, but they significantly contribute to orientation on the field. “Hintermann!”, “Zeit!”, “Dreh auf!” – these commands are standardized, quick, and clear. They help in split seconds to assess situations correctly and make decisions. Agreements like “Verschieben!” or “Zweiter Pfosten!” are just as much part of this language as the frequently heard tactical directives from the outside: “let the ball run” or “stay compact”.

Each position has its own patterns: center-backs direct a lot, defensive midfielders serve as control centers – but even forwards send signals, for example with a brief “Steck” when the ball should be played through.

“Leo!” and “Klatsch!” – Football jargon on the field

Besides the classic commands, there are also terms in football that are hardly heard off the pitch – but every player understands them. “Leo!” for example, is an internationally used warning signal: It means that a teammate should let the ball pass because another player is better positioned. Another commonly heard command is “Klatsch!” – usually shouted when a player should rebound the ball directly with the first touch, for example during a one-two or in tight game situations.

But often, it doesn't take many words: A quick “Hey!” or a hand signal is often enough to alert teammates or initiate runs. And sometimes, other things speak for themselves – body language, eye contact, a high-five after a goal. The language of the game is universal.

German is the standard language – but not the only one

On the pitch, German is the dominant language – especially for commands or tactical instructions from the coach. But it is not the only one. Union again fields a multinational team this year. Players from Croatia, Denmark, Portugal, Serbia or Scotland bring their origins – and thus their language – into the game.

Many players speak English, it is often used among each other – especially when their German skills are still developing. Of course, there are instances where compatriots converse in Croatian or Danish – particularly in small-sided games or during position training.

For players who are new to the team or whose German is still under development, language instruction is part of everyday life. German courses are firmly integrated into the weekly schedule, often with external teachers on-site at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei. The goal is clear: better understanding, faster integration, more confidence on and off the pitch.

Listened: Who actually speaks the most?

Those standing on the sidelines quickly hear who speaks particularly much in training. The axis through the middle – goalkeeper Frederik Rönnow, center-back Leopold Querfeld, central midfielder Rani Khedira – is often the loudest. But experienced players on the wings, like captain Christopher Trimmel, also take on communicative responsibility. Of course, the voices of the coaching staff mix into the soundscape on the pitch – especially assistant coach Sebastian Bönig is regularly heard. However, it is less clear commands and more unmistakable sounds that he produces. This not only draws attention but also brings a smile or two to the team.

"Hey, just play!"

No matter how clear many commands are on the field – sometimes even the loudest shout doesn’t help. Then "Clap!" quickly turns into a frustrated "Why are you dribbling there?!" Especially in fast-paced game formats, the balls fly and occasionally so do the comments. A poorly timed pass, one trick attempt too many, or a loss of the ball at the sideline – this reliably brings about heated reactions. However, the annoyance is usually short-lived. At the latest with the next successful play, everything is forgotten – until the next scene where someone is once again holding onto the ball for too long. Just football.

Quote of the Day: "What if a player has locked his band (room key) in the room?" – "I hope it’s not Yannic Stein – he already has them all." – replied an adidas employee to the question.

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