Werder Bremen is one of the clubs that don’t really have a clear identity at the moment. They do have history, of course: “Das Wunder von der Weser” by now refers to 4 (yes, four!) miracle comebacks in the European cups, from late 80s to late 90s. However, the last big era was under Thomas Schaaf and ended six years ago, in 1999 (with 3 cups and one championship, no less). In Bremen, the long-term contract extension for coach Kohfeldt shows the hope that he will be the architect of a new, succesful era. But for now, I am not really sure what the overall club strategy is: Youth development? Big name signings? Tactical consistency? In the past, Bremen was often succesful when they took on “difficult” characters and made them work in the team’s context: Basler, Micoud, Ailton, Diego, in the last years Max Kruse. This was possible when the coach was the fixture and guaranteed stability: Rehhagel, then Schaaf. Maybe Kohfeldt can continue this tradition and be the next Werder “Urgestein”.

In terms of transfers, there is of course one big issue: Max Kruse left for Instanbul and will leave a huge gap. Not only did he score 11 times with 9 assists, he was also the absolute fulcrum of the offense, playing a free-roaming role. Bremen outright bought loanee Friedl (defense, basically all 4 back positions) from Bayern after the loan and added striker Füllkrug from Hannover. Ömer Toprak (central defense, BVB) arrives on loan as well. That’s, well, not much; especially on offense.

The starting 11 is not bad, with some promising youngsters who could make the next step: The Eggestein brothers, Friedl, Rashica and in the second unit Sargent (striker). Still, the squad feels thin. Toprak and Veljkovic can cover central defense well, but I don’t really see any fullbacks to challenge the starters. Similarly on the wings, maybe Bartels will attack again. Upfront, there is still Pizarro, still going strong at 40 years old. Unfortunately, Bargfrede is still injured, so another alternative gone.

All told, I think Bremen will struggle mightily this year. They moved backwards with the loss of Kruse without proper compensation, while other ambitious clubs improved. The one thing they count on is their coach and the stability he brings. I just think this won’t be enough this season so the stated aim of playing in Europe is not realistic. They are still too well organized to actually be in danger of relegation, but it won’t be a comfortable season.

Title odds: 210:1

Relegation odds: 34:1

Final expected finish: 14

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