FC Koln has experienced a mixed start to the season with a win and a loss, raising questions about the team's actual strength. A 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim was followed by a heavy 4-1 home defeat to VfB Stuttgart, as reported by Bild.

How does the defense look after the opening matches?

The backline has conceded six goals in the first two matches. This continues a negative trend from last season, where Koln had the league's fourth-worst defense with 63 goals conceded. New centre-back Luka Lochoshvili, 28, was directly involved in the debacle against Stuttgart, bearing some responsibility for two of the goals. His colleague Gideon Mensah, also 28 and signed as a left-back, is already under pressure. New left-sided player Borna Sosa, 28, increases the competition for Mensah ahead of the home match against Werder Bremen on September 12. Should defensive errors persist, the 22-year-old new signing Rav van den Berg, an eight-million-euro acquisition, could also get his first chance.

Who is missing in attack against Bremen?

The offense will be without key players. Norwegian Sebastian Sebulonsen, 26, was a key performer last season but is out with a thigh muscle fibre tear. A return is only expected after the international break, at the earliest for the derby against Gladbach on October 10. Two-goal hero from the first matchday, Thijs Dallinga, has recently been struggling with gastrointestinal issues. However, the 26-year-old is expected to start against Bremen. Further absentees according to the current injury status are Timo Hübers and the young winger Said El Mala, 20, who was supposed to step in on his flank. The injury list can be viewed on our injuries page.

Which new signings can make a difference?

Alongside defensive reinforcements, FC Koln has also strengthened in attacking midfield. The 19-year-old Mikey Moore impressed after coming on as a substitute against Stuttgart. A central role is earmarked for Ellyes Skhiri. The 31-year-old Tunisian brought more stability after his introduction in the second half against Stuttgart and is expected to become a regular starter. On the right side of midfield, Alessio Castro-Montes, 29, remains the first choice. In attack, options besides Dallinga include Linton Maina, Jan Thielmann, and Ragnar Ache. The complete squad overview is available in the squad section.

What does the club management say about the situation?

Sporting director Thomas Kessler, 40, sees no reason for excessive doubt despite the fluctuating performances. "Es gibt keinen Anlass dafür, irgendetwas so dermaßen infrage zu stellen" (There is no reason to question anything to such an extreme degree), said Kessler. His statement shows the willingness to give the team time to develop. The next opportunity to stabilize comes with the home game against Werder Bremen. This fixture is the next appointment on the club's fixtures calendar.