Eren Dinkci is set for a special return to SC Freiburg. The 24-year-old attacker, who recently returned to Werder Bremen on loan, could feature at the Europa-Park Stadion on Sunday, as reported by Kicker.
Dinkci had been struggling with muscular problems for two to three weeks and was not fully fit. This meant he missed Werder's season opener in the DFB-Pokal. He has now returned to full team training. Werder coach Daniel Thioune stated that "if he completes the final training session on Saturday," Dinkci could be available for the Bundesliga start on Sunday. Thioune is considering a short substitute appearance. He values the player's versatility, as Dinkci can play on both wings and as a second striker.
What role does Dinkci play for Werder Bremen?
Daniel Thioune sees Eren Dinkci as a valuable option for Werder's attack. The player's flexibility gives the coach more tactical choices, especially in the latter stages of a match. Under normal circumstances, Dinkci might still have been part of the SC Freiburg squad. Freiburg's coach Julian Schuster recently spoke appreciatively about him. For Werder, having a fit Dinkci as an option is an important asset, especially given the challenges ahead. Bremen travel to Freiburg sitting 15th in the table, while SCF begins the new campaign after finishing seventh last season with 47 points.
What does the match mean for SC Freiburg?
For SC Freiburg, the home game against Werder Bremen is the first Bundesliga test of the season. Julian Schuster's team aims to build on last season's performances, where they scored 51 goals but conceded 57. The record of 13 wins, 8 draws, and 13 losses from 34 games is one they will look to improve. Their recent form before the break was mixed with WLDLW. The significant 42-point gap to leaders Bayern Munich shows the level at the top of the league. All current squad and table data can be found on our squad and standings pages.
How do private circumstances affect Dinkci's season?
Eren Dinkci's private situation is extraordinary and has changed his perspective on football. His wife Cinja was diagnosed with leukemia at the end of January. The couple went public with the diagnosis in April. These experiences have reshaped the 24-year-old's priorities. Sport remains important, but it is now viewed in a different light. This maturity and perspective could also benefit Dinkci on the pitch.
What awaits the teams in the coming weeks?
Sunday's encounter is the starting point for both teams in a long season. For SC Freiburg, the match against Bremen is followed by other important fixtures that will shape the first half of the campaign. The complete schedule can be viewed on our fixtures page. Player performance data is documented on the stats page. For Eren Dinkci, it's an emotional game, regardless of whether he starts or comes off the bench. His return to the Europa-Park Stadion highlights the often intertwined paths in professional football.
