Eintracht Frankfurt’s Goalkeeping Challenges: A Commitment to Michael Zetterer

Eintracht Frankfurt’s ongoing defensive struggles were once again evident during the Bundesliga clash against Köln on Saturday night. The team’s challenges in conceding goals extend beyond the defensive line, with goalkeeper Michael Zetterer displaying vulnerabilities on Köln’s opening goal. Nevertheless, head coach Dino Toppmöller has pledged to retain the 30-year-old in his starting position.

Frankfurt acquired Zetterer from Werder Bremen this summer following an unexpected transfer of squad captain Kevin Trapp to Paris FC. The club aimed to cultivate young Brazilian keeper Kaua Santos as their new first-choice goalkeeper. Sensing the shift, Trapp opted to submit a transfer request.

In securing Zetterer, the RheinMainAdler brought in an experienced keeper who felt marginalized by the emergence of a younger talent. Despite this, Zetterer clearly stated that he did not leave Werder Bremen to serve as a backup for Kaua Santos, a sentiment that was validated when Santos struggled upon his return from injury.

Kaua Santos returned to the pitch on matchday four, starting in four league matches and one Champions League fixture. However, after conceding a staggering 18 goals in those five games, Toppmöller announced that Zetterer would resume his position as the team’s primary goalkeeper.

Although Zetterer himself conceded five goals against Liverpool in the Champions League, he has managed to maintain three clean sheets across seven matches in all competitions, indicating a slight improvement defensively.

In a recent interview with Kicker, Toppmöller reaffirmed his commitment to Zetterer, stating that the goalkeeper would remain in his role through the winter break, regardless of future developments. Kaua Santos is unlikely to receive another opportunity until at least 2026.

“The plan remains that he [Zetterer] will guard the goal until the winter break,” Toppmöller remarked. “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.”