Both Eric Martel and Jan Thielmann have proven their loyalty to 1. FC Köln and will stay to attempt to help the club to get back into the Bundesliga next season.
Jan Thielmann had previously signed a contract until 2026, and despite this he had a release clause in the case of relegation which he chose to forego for the next season so he could play for 1. FC Köln in the 2. Bundesliga.
Former RB Leipzig youngster Eric Martel will also stay next season, in a surprise move in light of his release clause this summer. His performances in midfield have been solid and he will no doubt be a key player in Germany's second division.
Lastly, these two players will start to raise the question whether Köln can make a push for promotion next season despite the transfer ban this summer. With proven 2. Liga players like Tim Lemperle and Jonas Ürbig in goal returning, they may be in within the favourites for a return to the Bundesliga.
Match Result
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