Behind closed doors, but under difficult external conditions with temperatures just above freezing and light snowfall, the coaching team challenged the players with running sessions, intensive passing exercises, and other forms of play, thus assessing the fitness level of the professionals.  

“The guys have followed their plans for the Christmas season well and presented a fit and fresh impression. One or two feet may need to get accustomed to the ball again, but I'm not worried about that. There were also no difficulties with nutrition; the players lead a much more ascetic and healthier lifestyle than others. And even if they indulge a bit during the holidays, there are fewer problems due to the higher metabolism,” said athletic coach Martin Krüger in his brief assessment. 

The session today on the training ground was the first of a few sessions until the next official match in the Bundesliga. Before the home game against 1. FSV Mainz 05 on Saturday, 10.01.2026 at 15:30, the team will travel to Saxony on Monday, 05.01.2026 and play their only friendly there: The kick off against FC Erzgebirge Aue will take place at 18:30 in the Erzgebirgsstadion.