A second half of the season breakthrough

Ilic became a decisive factor in Union’s attacking play through the second half of last season. The 25-year-old Serbian striker, who initially moved to the Alte Försterei on loan from Lille last summer, impressed with his determination, intelligence and strong presence in the box. In the last 14 games of the 2024/25 season, he scored seven times, including a spectacular brace in the memorable 4-4 draw against VfB Stuttgart. Ilic also showed his quality in the last Bundesliga match in Augsburg, scoring twice to secure a 2-1 away win in the season finale. He finished as the second-highest scorer in the Union squad.

The reactions to the transfer

"I felt at home at Union from day one – on the pitch, at the club and with the fans,” said Ilic on the signing of his permanent deal. “Even though things didn't go quite as I had hoped in the first few months, I felt that I was being given confidence from the second half of the season onwards. The fact that I was then able to contribute so well and that we won important games together makes me very happy. I am now all the more delighted to continue to be part of this team and this special club.”

Horst Heldt, director of men’s professional football at 1. FC Union Berlin was just as happy, saying: "Andrej has integrated excellently into our team in a short space of time, despite a few ups and downs during the season. With his performances on the pitch, he has proven that he can help us in the long term. He brings the physical presence, goal-scoring instinct and mentality that we need in our attack. We are delighted that he will continue to wear our shirt in the future."