"“I think it [Freiburg's success] embodies everything that is positive about football,” Kompany said recently. “It's a small club that's building itself up with its own resources. What Freiburg are doing is a great example for many other clubs.”"
"Despite a first-ever German Cup final in 2022 (one that ended in a dramatic defeat on penalties), a Europa League tie against Juventus the year after and a new stadium in 2024, Freiburg have never strayed from the core values of a local club. They are prudent with their business, growth always feels organic, and ultimately, in an era of staggering financial power, remain that rarest of all things in football: a sensible club."
"Freiburg have an excellent record of developing young players. It is estimated that 60 or more players currently in the top three divisions were either developed by or have played for the club. Then there's the financial restraint the club has shown in recent years. Beyond their approach in the transfer market their record signing is Ritsu Doan in 2022, for a reported fee of just over 10m ($11.6m) the management of the books is truly an example for others."
"In 2025, Freiburg reported a profit of 11.8 million despite not playing in Europe, where prize money is higher. Also, unusually, Freiburg have no bank liabilities."
Freiburg reached their first European final, reflecting positive football values. The club grew from local origins and moved from fluctuating between divisions to a stable Bundesliga presence. Milestones include a first German Cup final in 2022, a Europa League tie with Juventus in 2023, and a new stadium in 2024, while maintaining local-club core values. Freiburg emphasizes youth development, with many players in top divisions having been developed by or played for the club. Financial restraint is central, including modest transfer spending and strong management of finances. In 2025, Freiburg reported an 11.8 million profit without European competition and had no bank liabilities.
Read at www.dw.com
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