1. FC Union Berlin will continue to be able to count on the services of physical rehabilitation trainer Johannes Thienel in the future, with both sides having agreed to continue their successful work together.

The signing of Thienel last summer completed a circle. In 2017, he was a trainer at the Union Academy and was replaced by Michel Kuper after his move to Sportfreunde Lotte. Four years later, however, Thienel returned to the Alte Försterei. Prior to that, the Brandenburg-born player had worked for SC Paderborn 07 as a rehab and athletics coach.

"With this new deal for Johannes Thienel, we are ensuring continuity for the coming season," said Union's director of professional football, Oliver Ruhnert. "Johannes knows the club well and is also an excellent professional fit for us. We are looking forward to our continued cooperation."