Ron-Robert Zieler surprised by return to FC Köln | OneFootball

Zieler, 36, left Hannover 96 earlier this summer after three years as the club’s undisputed number one, having not missed a single 2. Bundesliga match during that spell. He was also statistically the league’s best goalkeeper last season, conceding only 36 goals. Still, both parties decided to part ways.

"Everyone knows how closely my family and I are connected with the city of Hannover and Hannover 96. It was an emotional and difficult decision for us," Zieler told Kicker, reflecting on his 382 competitive appearances for the club.

Now back in KölnZ, Zieler admitted the move came as a surprise:

"My return to 1. FC Köln shows how fast-moving and unpredictable football can be. Nothing can be planned. Six weeks ago, I never would have believed this would happen," he said.

A homecoming with purpose

Zieler is no stranger to Köln, having come through the club’s youth academy. He also made a brief appearance for the senior team during the 2020/21 campaign when he was brought in as backup to Timo Horn.

This time, Zieler will serve as an experienced deputy to current first-choice Marvin Schwäbe. He has signed a two-year contract and insists he is still highly motivated:

"I’m here with full energy and passion. My focus is entirely on my active career. I’m certainly not here to let my career wind down. I’m still extremely ambitious and know exactly what I’m capable of," Zieler emphasized.

Looking ahead to the Bundesliga challenge

Back in the Bundesliga as a newly promoted side, Köln knows the challenges ahead will be steep. Zieler believes the team must adopt a fearless mentality:

"As a promoted team, we have to be unpleasant to play against and always be ready to push ourselves to the absolute limit. If we do that, I’m sure we’ll win games. Especially at home, we need to harness the power of our fans and the euphoria from promotion," Zieler said.