Enthusiastic fans have long been a decisive factor in the fairytale-like story of Union Berlin. The supporters' steadfast backing appears to be the only constant as the team faces a substantial sporting crisis following an upswing that propelled the Berlin club into the first tier and the UEFA Champions League.

Jeffrey Gouweleeuw (R) of Augsburg vies with Kevin Behrens of Union Berlin during the German first division Bundesliga football match between FC Augsburg and Union Berlin in Augsburg, Germany, May 6, 2023. (Photo by Philippe Ruiz/Xinhua)

Cheers did not cease even after Urs Fischer's team finished their eighth game with another defeat. While fans remind their heroes of the values that made them strong, the players seem stuck in an identity crisis.

Having reached the top by relying on a solid defense, a passionate game approach, and efficient counterattacks, the next development step seems to have triggered a lack of orientation. Last summer, when Champions League qualification became a reality, enthusiasm seemed boundless. Anticipation soared at the prospect of facing international top teams like reigning Italian champions Napoli.

This Tuesday evening, the Italians arrive in Berlin for the third round of group matches. Following the descent in the national league, painful last-minute defeats against Real (1-0) and Braga (3-2) in the dying minutes have shattered dreams of surviving on the international stage.

The team's stability and hierarchy seem disturbed after updating their squad with international experience. Team captain Christopher Trimmel described the recent performances as "not Union-like," as goal-scoring and defending have become burdensome.

Swiss coach Urs Fischer, responsible for the amazing upswing, has come under pressure as attempts to increase the team's quality falter. Unpleasant questions also rain down on managing director Oliver Ruhnert regarding new arrivals like former German international Kevin Volland and former Juve star Leonardo Bonucci not meeting expectations.

"Why should I give up?" Coach Fischer asked as the Champions League seems to have turned into a competition not many are looking forward to. Performing in the Berlin Olympic Stadium, the arena of rival Hertha, seems to signify a loss of identity, as Union's success has long been grounded in the atmosphere created in the club's arena located in the city's eastern part.

With 38 conceived goals last season, the best figure aside from Bayern Munich, and already 17 after eight rounds of matches this league season, the story is told aside from only eleven scored goals leading to a fall to the 15th position.

Returning to the values that created success is one of the demands Coach Fischer is facing. While the Champions League has become a side issue, league performances, such as the upcoming duel against Bremen, have become a do-or-die task.

The Union coach's past achievements might, for now, keep the Swiss in charge, but the 57-year-old seems aware of the delicate situation. "No coach is allowed to only lose games," he stated. A turnaround in the short term is required to improve the situation, and the coach's future seems more than ever to depend on victories easing current tensions. 

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)