Winter Arrival Beste Poised for Starting Spot in Freiburg’s Away Clash with St. Pauli
Ahead of their away fixture against newly promoted FC St. Pauli, SC Freiburg manager Julian Schuster has hinted at the potential inclusion of winter signing Jan-Niklas Beste in the starting lineup.
"He is an option to start, and he possesses qualities that can benefit our team’s style of play," Schuster said ahead of Saturday’s encounter (15:30 CET, Sky).
Beste made his Freiburg debut as a substitute in the dying minutes of their 1-0 victory over his former club Heidenheim. Despite positive performances from both Vincenzo Grifo and Ritsu Doan in the recent home game, the manager admitted the possibility of one of them being benched.
"It’s possible that one of them might not start," Schuster hinted.
On the right-back position, however, the competitive landscape has been temporarily altered. Kiliann Sildillia is expected to retain his spot after two solid outings, as Lukas Kübler remains sidelined due to an infection.
Michael Gregoritsch, on the other hand, has returned to training after recovering from an infection. Max Rosenfelder has also overcome his muscular issues and is available for selection in Hamburg.
Schuster Weighs Attacking Options
Beste’s potential inclusion in the starting lineup raises questions about the composition of Freiburg’s attacking unit. The versatile midfielder can operate in various positions, including the wings and central midfield.
If Beste is deployed in the starting lineup, it could lead to a reshuffling of the front three. Grifo, who has been in impressive form this season, could move to the left flank, with Doan potentially switching to the right.
Another option for Schuster would be to start all three attackers, with Beste slotting into central midfield. This would give Freiburg a more creative and attacking presence in the middle of the park.
Competition for Starting Spot Intensifies
The arrival of Beste has intensified competition for places in Freiburg’s starting lineup. With a number of players vying for starting roles, Schuster faces a selection headache.
The manager has emphasized the importance of squad rotation, especially with a busy schedule ahead. However, he has also acknowledged the need to field his strongest possible team for each match.
"We have a lot of quality in our squad, and it’s up to the players to prove themselves in training," Schuster said. "Those who perform well will get their chance to play."
St. Pauli Present Stiff Challenge
Despite Freiburg’s impressive form, they face a stern test against St. Pauli. The newly promoted side has made a strong start to their Bundesliga campaign, sitting comfortably in mid-table.
St. Pauli are known for their passionate home support, and they will be determined to make life difficult for Freiburg. The visitors will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
"We expect a tough game against St. Pauli," Schuster said. "They are a good team, and they will be looking to cause us problems. We need to be focused and disciplined if we want to come away with three points."
