Farès Chaïbi has set his sights on becoming a central figure at Eintracht Frankfurt this season after admitting his personal performance last term fell short of expectations, despite the team’s collective success.
The Algerian international featured in 38 matches last season but was often deployed deeper on the pitch, a tactical shift that limited his attacking contributions.
As the 2025/26 campaign begins, Chaïbi is determined to turn that experience into a stepping stone, as he eyes a more prominent role in both club and country setups.
“Last season wasn’t satisfying for me personally,” Chaïbi said candidly. “I want to play regularly. Until now, I had rarely been on the bench.
It was the first time I played deeper in midfield, but this experience taught me a lot. I’m going to give everything to get back to a leading position.”
Chaïbi, formerly of Toulouse, has typically operated as a winger, number eight, or attacking midfielder. However, during pre-season, manager Dino Toppmöller experimented with the 21-year-old in a more withdrawn midfield role, pairing him with teammates like Oscar Højlund and Hugo Larsson.
The adjustment could prove advantageous, with competition in defensive midfield positions still open at both Frankfurt and within the Algerian national team.
Reflecting on the tactical change, Chaïbi acknowledged the learning curve but expressed confidence in his ability to thrive. “Earlier in my career at Toulouse, I played in this area, although not as a number six—more as an eight or ten,” he explained. “I prefer playing a little higher in midfield where I can get more of the ball.”
In preparation for the new season, Chaïbi used his summer break to focus on personal development, training individually with a coach to sharpen his fitness and technical edge.
His dedication has not gone unnoticed by Toppmöller, who is reportedly pleased with the player’s commitment and physical condition on return to camp.
Frankfurt’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League has also given Chaïbi added motivation. Having played in the UEFA Conference League during his debut season, followed by the Europa League last year, the chance to now feature in European football’s top-tier competition marks a dream realised for the young midfielder.
“It’s a childhood dream come true!” he said with excitement. “In my first year, we played in the Conference League, then the Europa League, and now the Champions League. It’s unbelievable. I still can’t believe it, and I can’t wait to hear that anthem at Deutsche Bank Park.”
Chaïbi is under no illusions about the increased competition within the Frankfurt squad but remains focused on team success rather than individual statistics.
“I have high ambitions and will give everything, but I’m not obsessed with goals or assists. I just want to have the best season possible and help make our fans proud.”
With his versatility now being seen as a potential strength rather than a limitation, Chaïbi is approaching the new season with fresh confidence.
His willingness to adapt, combined with a strong relationship with the coaching staff and a renewed hunger, could make this campaign one of resurgence—both for Frankfurt and for the Algerian national team.
