Götze and Uzun Return to Starting Lineup

Mo. Basuony

Published: April 5, 2026 11:22 AM ET

The international break is over. Eintracht Frankfurt returns to action on Easter Sunday in matchday 28.

The team seeks a reaction after a disappointing defeat at Mainz. Confidence and attacking rhythm are top priorities.

Köln under pressure and coaching change

Promoted 1. FC Köln arrive in a difficult moment. The club has not won in seven league games.

Köln sit 15th and face relegation worries. The club replaced Lukas Kwasniok with assistant René Wagner.

Frankfurt aim to consolidate seventh place. They want to open a gap to SC Freiburg in the table.

Coach Albert Riera promised more long balls in decisive moments. He also hinted at a two-striker setup to boost the attack.

The offense has struggled recently. Frankfurt managed only two goals across matches with St. Pauli, Heidenheim and Mainz.

Riera made three changes from the Mainz game. Ansgar Knauff returns to the starting eleven after abdominal surgery.

Oscar Højlund starts for the first time since injury. Robin Koch comes back after serving a yellow-red suspension.

Koch replaces long-term absentee Nnamdi Collins. The three-man centre-back line will be Koch, Arthur Theate and Aurèle Amenda.

Wing-back duties go to Nene Brown on the left. Knauff will occupy the right flank.

The forward duo will feature Jonny Burkardt and Arnaud Kalimuendo. Ritsu Doan, Højlund and Hugo Larsson will support in midfield.

Mario Götze is back in the matchday squad. He will start the game on the bench.

On fan forums, searches even include phrases like “Uzun Return to Starting Lineup”. Supporter debate continues ahead of kickoff.

This fixture carries significance for both sides. Frankfurt must respond, while Köln seek the long-awaited win.

Filmogaz.com will monitor team news and match updates as the game unfolds.