Younes Ebnoutalib returns to Eintracht Frankfurt starting XI

Younes Ebnoutalib returned to Eintracht Frankfurt’s starting lineup for the home match against SC Freiburg after beginning the previous game on the bench.

The forward was left out of the starting team during Frankfurt’s 3-1 victory over Mainz, with Jonathan Burkardt selected as the lone striker. Coach Adi Hutter explained that the decision was based on tactics rather than any concern about Ebnoutalib’s performances.

Frankfurt changed shape for the Freiburg fixture after central defender Jeremiaha Maluze suffered an injury. Hutter reverted to a back four and restored a two-man attack, creating the opportunity for Ebnoutalib to return from the opening whistle.

“We have always said that we want to be flexible,” Hutter told DAZN. “Today we removed one player at the back, also to give Younes Ebnoutalib the opportunity to start again.”

The coach said Ebnoutalib understood why he had been left out at Mainz, particularly because Frankfurt wanted greater defensive stability. “Younes understood that completely,” Hutter said.

Hutter also hopes the striker can benefit from his recent Germany call-up. “Today he gets another chance. I hope he can use the boost he received from being nominated for the German national team,” he added.