Marvin Friedrich

ANALYSIS
Friedrich made 141 competitive appearances for Union during his first spell between 2018 and 2022, playing a decisive role in one of the most significant moments in the club's history when his header helped secure the draw at Stuttgart that paved the way for Union's first-ever promotion to the Bundesliga. The 30-year-old center-back returns with considerably more experience than when he left, having spent four and a half seasons at Monchengladbach since his departure. Director of football Horst Heldt highlighted his knowledge of the club's values, his proven leadership ability and his mental strength as the key factors behind the decision to bring him back, expressing confidence that Friedrich will immediately provide stability to the defensive unit. His return to Kopenick represents a full circle moment for a player who has described Union as the place where he grew most as both a player and a person.