Werder Bremen name Estonia keeper Hein as starter for Bundesliga opener against Freiburg

Estonia international goalkeeper Karl Jakob Hein is set to start in goal for Werder Bremen in their Bundesliga season opener against Freiburg on Sunday at 16:30 local time. The 24-year-old will take the field as the club’s first-choice keeper after spending last season as understudy to Mio Backhaus, who has since transferred to Freiburg.
Werder Bremen manager Daniel Thioune confirmed Hein’s selection ahead of the match, expressing confidence in the Estonian’s readiness. Hein, who has recovered from a minor injury, stated he feels in top form and is eager to return to action. “I feel great. I’m in shape and can’t wait to get back on the pitch,” he said .
The match carries added intrigue as Hein may face his former competitor, Backhaus, now with the visiting side. Hein downplayed the personal dimension, emphasizing his focus on performance. “I’m concentrating on my own display. The important thing is to get a good result and start the season with three points. But this game is certainly special for both of us,” he said .
Hein’s promotion to Werder’s starting lineup follows Backhaus’s departure, which cleared the path for the Estonian to assume the No. 1 role. After a challenging previous season and a brief injury layoff, Hein described the opportunity as long-awaited. “I believe everything happens at the right time. I knew that if I kept working hard, my chance would come. Now I’m ready to take it,” he said .
Werder Bremen finished 15th in the Bundesliga last season, while Freiburg placed seventh. The club’s primary objective for the new campaign is to secure their top-flight status for another year.
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