Hamburger SV is facing significant challenges this season, particularly regarding their offensive performance. With only 17 goals in the current Bundesliga campaign, the team’s struggles have drawn sharp criticism from former player Didi Hamann.
Hamann’s Assessment of HSV’s Offensive Struggles
Hamann highlights that no striker has managed to score more than one goal for the club so far. The analysis indicates that poor transfer planning and coaching decisions have hampered the team’s effectiveness on the field.
Current Scoring Statistics
- Team Goals: 17
- Lowest Scoring Team: FC St. Pauli with 16 goals
- Top Scorer: Albert Sambi Lokonga and Rayan Philippe (4 goals each)
- Strikers’ Performance: Robert Glatzel, Ransford Königsdörffer, and Yussuf Poulsen each with just 1 goal
Notably, Glatzel has a history as a reliable goal-scorer, netting 82 goals in 141 competitive matches. However, his impact has diminished since the team’s promotion to the Bundesliga. He has started only once this season, where he scored a goal against VfB Stuttgart but was later sidelined due to injury.
The Struggles of Key Players
Königsdörffer has been a regular starter under head coach Merlin Polzin, appearing in 13 of 17 matches. Despite his pace and work ethic, he has struggled to convert chances into goals. Hamann acknowledges his potential but doubts he can become a consistent goal-scorer.
Yussuf Poulsen, brought in from RB Leipzig and appointed captain, has faced injuries limiting his contributions to a mere 202 minutes of gameplay this season. Hamann questions the wisdom of this transfer, particularly given Poulsen’s prior struggles to find the net.
Looking Ahead
Hamann also expressed skepticism about recent signing Damion Downs, who had a lackluster stint in the English second division after a successful season in the 2. Bundesliga. The 21-year-old’s transition back to the Bundesliga will be closely monitored.
To improve the team’s fortunes, Hamann suggests that Polzin should focus on maximizing Glatzel’s playing time, allowing him to conserve energy for scoring opportunities. He emphasizes that a striker needs the coach’s confidence to thrive.
Competing in the Relegation Battle
The outlook for HSV is grim without increased scoring efficiency. Hamann warns that the team’s efforts may be wasted without a reliable striker. He predicts that HSV, alongside Heidenheim and Augsburg, will struggle to avoid relegation.
This intensifies the importance of upcoming matches, particularly the derby against St. Pauli, as both teams battle for survival in the league.
