Overview
- Fortuna announced on Tuesday that right-back Matthias Zimmermann has signed a one-year extension and will remain with the first team for the 3. Liga campaign.
- The club confirmed plans for Zimmermann, 34, to move into an experienced leadership role with the U23 after his playing career ends, keeping him with the club long term.
- The signing follows Fortuna’s relegation from the 2. Bundesliga and the departures of key players such as Florian Kastenmeier, Shinta Appelkamp and Cedric Itten, and is presented as a sign of continuity.
- Zimmermann has made about 250 competitive appearances for Fortuna since joining from VfB Stuttgart in 2018, ranks around 20th on the club’s all-time appearance list and is a clear fan favourite.
- Fortuna begins pre-season training on Saturday, June 27, the U23 will play in the Oberliga next season according to Transfermarkt’s correction, and the club has precedent for keeping veteran players in coaching or leadership roles after retirement.