Eintracht Frankfurt’s Goalkeeper Situation: A Commitment to Experience

Eintracht Frankfurt’s ongoing defensive struggles were once again evident during Saturday’s Bundesliga match against Köln. The issues related to goal concessions extend beyond the defensive line, with goalkeeper Michael Zetterer displaying vulnerabilities, particularly on Köln’s opening goal. Nevertheless, head coach Dino Toppmöller has decided to maintain Zetterer as the starting goalkeeper.

The club acquired Zetterer from Bremen this summer following the unexpected departure of squad captain Kevin Trapp to Paris FC. Eintracht aimed to develop young Brazilian goalkeeper Kaua Santos as the new No. 1. Foreseeing his diminishing role, Trapp submitted a transfer request.

In Zetterer, the RheinMainAdler secured a seasoned goalkeeper who felt sidelined at Bremen by a rising talent. Zetterer has consistently expressed that he did not join Werder Bremen to play second fiddle to Santos. With Santos struggling after returning from injury, Zetterer’s aspirations were ultimately realized.

Santos made his return in matchday four, starting in four league matches and one Champions League game. However, after conceding a staggering 18 goals across these five fixtures, Toppmöller announced Zetterer would reclaim the No. 1 position.

Despite conceding five goals against Liverpool in the Champions League, Zetterer has managed to record three clean sheets over seven competitions, indicating a slight improvement in the team’s defensive performance.

In a recent interview with Kicker, Toppmöller reiterated his commitment to Zetterer as the starting goalkeeper through the winter break, regardless of future developments. He stated that Santos will not have the opportunity to compete for the starting role until at least 2026. “The plan remains that he [Zetterer] will guard the goal until the winter break,” Toppmöller explained. “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.”