Königsdörffer’s goal drought worsens, set for super sub role? | OneFootball

Even after nine matchdays, Ransford Königsdörffer is still waiting for his first goal of the season. Against Cologne, the striker squandered more opportunities.

The discussions surrounding striker Ransford Königsdörffer are currently picking up steam almost every week. The 24-year-old has now been waiting a full 659 minutes for his first Bundesliga goal. In the 1:4 defeat in Cologne, the Ghanaian international once again delivered an unfortunate performance, which is emblematic of his current slump in form.

Instead of the much-needed breakthrough, Königsdörffer experienced a day to forget: first, he blocked a shot attempt from his teammate William Mikelbrencis, then he made a bad pass before the 0:2, and finally missed a header chance from close range. His substitution after just under an hour was the logical consequence.

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Königsdörffer on the bench for the first time against BVB?

While criticism from fans and media representatives is growing louder, coach Merlin Polzin has so far steadfastly stuck by his striker. “I am very satisfied with his development,” the coach recently emphasized. Königsdörffer creates space with his running and positioning, which benefits others.

But Polzin also knows that, in the end, only goals count. And that’s exactly where the problem lies: according to his xG value of 3.36 (according to Fotmob), the HSV pro should have already scored three to four goals. In reality, he has none, which is the biggest discrepancy in the league.

Statistics like these put Polzin in a bind. How much longer can he afford to keep the luckless Königsdörffer in the starting lineup? At least there are alternatives: captain Yussuf Poulsen is improving after his injury break and is, according to Bild, a candidate for the starting eleven against Borussia Dortmund (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.). Robert Glatzel is waiting for his chance, and Rayan Philippe could theoretically move into the center as well.

So, a decisive week is beginning for Königsdörffer. It is not out of the question that he could have to take a seat on the bench for the first time this season against BVB.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.