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.
For the second year in a row, the "Lilies" are holding their summer training camp in Bad Wörishofen in the Allgäu region. SV 98 will be hard at work in this Kneipp spa town until July 26th, preparing for the upcoming season. In our diary, we’ll take you along through the days at the training camp.
Sergio Lopez’s time at SV 98 is coming to an end after two years. The 27-year-old Spaniard is moving to FC Granada. The "Lilies" and the Spanish second-division club agreed on the transfer this Friday (July 24th).
"It’s coming home"? Not quite. But at least it’s coming to the "Bölle"! To kick off the season, SV Darmstadt 98 will host English second-division side Portsmouth FC at the Merck-Stadion am Böllenfalltor next Saturday (August 1). Fans of both clubs can look forward not only to an exciting international pre-season test but also to a special day of football centred around the official season opener. Kick-off is at 2pm, with a varied program of activities around the stadium awaiting visitors beforehand. But first, let’s take a closer look at the "Lilies'" opponents.
For the second year in a row, the "Lilies" are holding their summer training camp in Bad Wörishofen in the Allgäu region. SV 98 will be hard at work in this Kneipp spa town until July 26th, preparing for the upcoming season. Through our diary, we’ll take you along for the journey during the training camp.
Ibrahim El Kadiri has been an SV 98 player for just under a month. We took the opportunity during the training camp to interview the skillful new signing.
For the second year in a row, the "Lilies" are holding their summer training camp in Bad Wörishofen in the Allgäu region. SV 98 will be hard at work in this Kneipp spa town until July 26th, preparing for the upcoming season. In our diary, we’ll take you along through the days at the training camp.
A training camp, a friendly match, and a blue-and-white presence in the Odenwald: there is plenty going on around SV 98 this week. The "Lilies" are continuing their intensive preparations for the new season in Bad Wörishofen until Sunday (July 26th), while also bonding as a team off the pitch. Saturday (July 25th) brings the next pre-season test: a match against SG Sonnenhof Großaspach. Additionally, SV 98 will once again be represented at the Erbach Wiesenmarkt’s Family Day on Thursday (July 23rd). "Lilies Across the Board" brings you all the latest news from life at the club.
Taking the next step together: SV Darmstadt 98 and Klöber Versicherungsmakler GmbH are further expanding their partnership. The Darmstadt-based company, which has served as a "Top Partner" to the Lilien for the past two years, will now act as a "Premium Partner" of SV 98.
It’s cup time again! In the first round of the 2026/27 DFB-Pokal season, the Lilies will face FC Carl Zeiss Jena in the "City of Light" on Sunday, August 23, at 3:30pm. Here’s how you can be there for the away match: the pre-sale for members begins this coming Friday, July 24, at 12pm —available both online and at the ticket shop at the Merck-Stadion. You can find all further details in this announcement.
A special experience awaits Darmstadt 98 fans: One week before the start of the season, SV Darmstadt 98 will host the traditional English club Portsmouth FC, and this year, once again, you have a very special opportunity. You can experience the match on Saturday (August 1st/2pm) from the exclusive 98ers' box on the upper level of the main stand at the Merck Stadium at Böllenfalltor and enjoy an unforgettable home game with international guests and a fantastic atmosphere.
SV Darmstadt 98 and Sparkasse Darmstadt und Dieburg are further expanding their long-standing partnership. By becoming a premium partner, both parties are sending a clear message to the region: Together, they want to support young people, strengthen youth football, and offer even more opportunities for children and families in southern Hesse.
