Markus Pfitzner commented on the summer pre-season, the current squad, and the final pieces of the puzzle—among other topics—on the sidelines of Friday's training session (July 24th). We have compiled the key statements made by the "Lilien" president from the training camp in Bad Wörishofen for you.
I am really looking forward to what lies ahead. Throughout the pre-season—in the friendly matches and here at the training camp—we can already sense something new taking shape. The new players are bringing a fresh dynamic, even though the team’s on-field chemistry still needs to fully click within this new setup. We are heading into the final phase of pre-season with plenty of confidence and enthusiasm. There is absolutely no talk of relaxation here in Bad Wörishofen; the level of meticulous work being done is incredible. The team and staff are fully charged and firing on all cylinders from morning till night. It is a place where you can feel the positive vibes generated by the new squad makeup and the anticipation radiating from everyone.
We were prepared for these departures; there were no surprises. It was already apparent at the end of last season that this might happen with the players who have left us. We currently have a squad with great potential and are convinced that we will field a strong team for the start of the second-division season. However, we also know that we have to earn a successful season—especially in this league—all over again. There will be setbacks and periods of adjustment. Yet, this transition—particularly in our attack—presents a huge opportunity for us. With the new players, we have gained a fresh mentality and dynamic, as well as new energy and strong characters.
We are now just missing one or two important pieces of the puzzle to make the squad picture perfect. I think we will make progress there in the short term. We wanted to sell players—something we did with enthusiasm—and now the goal is to sign new players with that same enthusiasm. We have already done that, too, as the number of new arrivals shows. We recognise the importance of these final pieces and want to strengthen the squad as effectively as possible. At the same time, we will continue to do things the Darmstadt 98 way.
I would consider the 2026/27 campaign a successful season if, much like during large parts of the previous season, we act as a united group, play exciting football, and possess that very sense of togetherness that has always been our greatest strength. This unity is a fundamental source of our collective strength. Above all, we are really looking forward to forging a strong bond with our fans once again and working together to earn every inch of the pitch, every point, and every victory in the new second-division season.
The analysis of last season was very thorough, intensive, and highly critical. It had an impact on every area—evident in the adjustments made to the coaching staff—but also influenced squad planning. The changes to the staff are part of the critical review of the final stretch of the previous season. As the board, we are fully convinced that, with this setup, we can get the best out of the team.
Costs are rising across the board—including for our club. Consequently, we need to look at ways to increase our revenue. We have already taken steps to do this over the summer, not only in the sporting realm but also in sponsorship. Despite the challenging economic climate, we succeeded in elevating two existing partners to the premium tier and securing a new premium partner in Focused Energy. We must work hard in all areas to improve our revenue situation and ensure long-term stability. It is also a fact that a small portion of transfer proceeds is being allocated to economic stability and future infrastructure projects.
The membership campaign is going well. We set ourselves an ambitious goal within a short timeframe. Our membership numbers are rising. We are growing significantly, even though we haven’t yet reached the 18,980-member mark. However, we are staying the course with initiatives like our Odenwald campaign and other ideas.
I followed the World Cup with mixed feelings. On the one hand, there were wonderful stories that demonstrated how football can bring people together. On the other hand, I am someone who dislikes this excessive commercialisation and over-the-top staging. As a person, Jürgen Klopp embodies a great many qualities. At his previous clubs, he always managed to unite people and generate fresh strength and energy. I hope we make progress with him and wish him all the best.
On Sunday, the Lilies face a challenge in Baden: for the 8th matchday, SV Darmstadt 98 travel to take on Karlsruher SC. At the pre-match press conference, our head coach discussed the squad situation, the qualities of the opposition, and the team's motivation to get back to winning ways on the road.
On Sunday (October 18th), SV Darmstadt 98 will visit Karlsruher SC. KSC has a history that extends well beyond the confines of German football: the club from Baden once caused a stir on the European stage, writing a chapter that is still remembered today. But how did KSC manage to step into the international spotlight, and what made this success so special?
The next away match is coming up: this Sunday (October 18th, 1:30pm), the Lilien will visit Karlsruher SC for the 8th matchday of the 2. Bundesliga. As always, you can find all the essential information regarding travel and your visit to the stadium in the fan guidelines.
SV Darmstadt 98 invites all its members to come to the Merck-Stadion am Böllenfalltor on November 1st, 2026, starting at 11:30am. Together, we aim to once again create the largest team photo in our club’s history—with the professional players in the front and the entire Lilies family behind them.
On Sunday (Oct 18th), SV Darmstadt 98 will visit Karlsruher SC. The side from Baden differs from the Lilies in several key respects. Furthermore, the match will see SV 98 cross paths with a former player once again. Find out here about other connections between the two clubs, as well as some particularly interesting statistics ahead of the encounter.
On Tuesday evening (October 13th), the SilberLilien took part in SV Darmstadt 98’s Stolperstein tour for the first time. Along the approximately six-kilometre route, the participants made several stops to learn more about the fates of Jewish club members who were persecuted and driven out during the Holocaust.
From new grassroots sports offerings and a look back at the club's history to birthdays and the latest updates from the media briefing—there is plenty to report from SV Darmstadt 98 again this week. In "Lilien Across the Board," we round up the news, insights, and stories from life at the club.
Tickets for the home match against 1. FC Heidenheim on November 22nd are available for purchase now.
SV Darmstadt 98's U21 team proved their mettle at home against KSV Hessen Kassel II in the Hessenliga on Sunday (Oct. 11th). After a convincing 90-minute performance, the Young Lilies secured another three points, finishing with a decisive 4–0 victory that lifts them to sixth place in the standings.
The Lilies overturned an early deficit to celebrate a 3–1 home victory against Energie Cottbus—a win that boosts confidence and confirms the progress being made. Read our analysis to find out why there is still work to be done and what positives SV 98 takes away from the match.
This season, too, Lilien fans will be doubly rewarded for every home goal scored by SV Darmstadt 98. In addition to the joy and excitement of the goals, the team's supporters will receive 98 litres of Krombacher Pils for every home goal scored by Darmstadt at the Merck-Stadion am Böllenfalltor.
After the international break, Darmstadt 98 returned to the Bölle with a home win! Against Energie Cottbus, SV Darmstadt 98 put on a spirited performance in front of their home crowd and rewarded themselves with three points after an intense match. We've compiled the post-match reactions for you here: