Eintracht Frankfurt’s Goalkeeping Situation: A Commitment to Stability

omidbasir- Eintracht Frankfurt’s ongoing defensive struggles were once again evident during the Bundesliga match against Köln on Saturday night. The team’s issues with conceding goals extend beyond the defensive line, as goalkeeper Michael Zetterer displayed vulnerabilities during Köln’s opening goal. Nevertheless, head coach Dino Toppmöller has stated his intention to retain the 30-year-old Zetterer as the starting goalkeeper.

Frankfurt acquired Zetterer from Bremen this summer following the unexpected departure of squad captain Kevin Trapp to Paris FC. In light of Trapp’s exit, the club aimed to cultivate young Brazilian keeper Kaua Santos as their new number one. Trapp, sensing the shift in dynamics, chose to request a transfer.

The RheinMainAdler managed to secure a seasoned goalkeeper in Zetterer, who felt he was being edged out of a starting position by an emerging talent. Zetterer has made it clear that he did not leave Werder Bremen to serve as a backup to Kaua Santos. After Santos’ return from injury, Zetterer’s aspirations as a starter were ultimately fulfilled.

Santos returned to play on matchday four, commencing in four league matches and one Champions League fixture. Unfortunately, he conceded a staggering 18 goals across these five games, prompting Toppmöller to announce that Zetterer would reclaim the starting role.

Although Zetterer conceded five goals against Liverpool in the Champions League, he has managed to secure three clean sheets across seven matches in all competitions, signaling some improvement.

In a recent interview with Kicker, Toppmöller confirmed his support for Zetterer, stating that he will remain the starting goalkeeper through the winter break, regardless of future developments. Santos will not have the opportunity to compete for the starting position until at least 2026.

Toppmöller remarked, “The plan remains that he [Zetterer] will guard the goal until the winter break. We still believe that Kauã can become a top goalkeeper. The idea was always that he would be our number one. Zetti knew that when he joined us. Zetti radiates calm and confidence. That’s what we need.”