The start of the league season in Germany is approaching, and GoHandball asked experienced journalist Björn Pazen to share his thoughts ahead of the Men’s Bundesliga.
Björn Pazen is an experienced journalist who has covered handball for many years and has worked closely with the EHF in recent years. Pazen knows the ins and outs of German handball.
Which team will win the league this season and why?
– SC Magdeburg. They have the most consistent squad compared to their rivals, such as Berlin. And they know how to handle the pressure.
Which players will stand out?
– Of course, Mathias Gidsel, as well as THW Kiel’s two new arrivals, Domen Makuc and Julian Köster, will make their mark on the upcoming season. It will be interesting to see whether the Bundesliga will be too demanding for both Dujshebaev brothers.
Which player will have his big breakthrough?
– Not as many as your Swedish [players], but I am sure Nikola Roganovic fits perfectly at VfL Gummersbach. The same can apply to Aymeric Minne in Flensburg. Another completely underestimated player is Spaniard Antonio Serradilla, who can become a cornerstone of Magdeburg’s defence.
Which player, team or event will be the most disappointing?
– I am not sure whether Lemgo can have another season like the one they had last year.
What are you looking forward to the most?
– The depth at the top and in the relegation zone. Though, I am sure Magdeburg will do it again. Kiel and Flensburg look quite strong, and Füchse can catch up if they find the key to replacing Lasse Andersson. Besides, I am interested to see how MT Melsungen will perform in their Champions League debut and how Bergischer HC can survive playing in the Bundesliga and, for the first time, the European League with the small squad they have.