Overview

• Steffen will oversee his first competitive match as Werder coach on Friday against Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB-Pokal first round.
• Werder scored only one goal across multiple preseason friendlies, prompting Steffen to call for improved offensive output.
• Defender Mitchell Weiser and midfielder Jens Stage will miss the start of the season with long-term injuries, stretching squad depth.
• Sporting director Clemens Fritz and Steffen plan to complete at least two signings, with a right-back and a striker among the priorities.
• Known for nurturing young players, Steffen plans to integrate academy prospects such as Patrice Covic into the first team.