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Hoffenheim 2026/27 season preview: Can the Sinsheimers crack the top four?
After missing out on the top four by a single point last term, Hoffenheim go into the new season with a clear objective to bridge that gap and qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Bolstered by some intriguing additions to his squad over the summer break, head coach Christian Ilzer will hope his side can compete at the sharp end once again.
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Hoffenheim
2025/26 finish: 5th
Pre-season results: 3-0 win vs. SGV Freiburg, 21-0 win vs. Massenbachhausen, 4-1 win vs. Greuther Fürth, 3-1 win vs. Holstein Kiel, 3-0 win vs. Karlsruhe, 4-1 loss vs. Borussia Mönchengladbach
First three fixtures: Cologne (A), Borussia Dortmund (H), VfB Stuttgart (H)
What to expect?
Since joining the club in November 2024, head coach Ilzer has transformed Hoffenheim from relegation candidates to Champions League qualification contenders. Last season, his side narrowly missed out on an all-important top-four finish by a single point.
Editorial note
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