French-Congolese defender Stanley Nsoki joins Union Berlin on loan from Hoffenheim

Union Berlin have completed the signing of French centre-back Stanley Nsoki on a season-long loan from Bundesliga rivals Hoffenheim, with an option to make the move permanent at the end of the campaign.

The 26-year-old becomes the latest addition to the Union Berlin squad as the club looks to strengthen its defensive line ahead of the new season.

Nsoki’s loan agreement includes a non-compulsory purchase clause, allowing Union to assess his long-term fit with the team before committing to a permanent transfer.

Nsoki, who began his professional career at Paris Saint-Germain after coming through the club’s youth academy, has accumulated experience across several top European leagues.

Following his departure from PSG, the defender featured for OGC Nice in Ligue 1, before moving to Belgian Pro League champions Club Brugge.

He joined Hoffenheim in 2022 but has struggled to secure a consistent starting role, partly due to a string of injuries that hampered his progress.

Union Berlin will be Nsoki’s fifth professional club. Despite a challenging period at Hoffenheim, where he was under contract until June 2027, the Frenchman remains a player of high potential.

His blend of physicality, ball-playing ability, and positional versatility makes him a valuable option for Union, who continue to bolster their ranks after their historic recent appearances in European competition.

Currently recovering from a muscle injury, Nsoki has joined Union Berlin’s pre-season camp in Herzogenaurach, where he is undergoing a personalised rehabilitation programme. The club expects him to return to full fitness in the coming weeks.

Speaking after completing his move, Nsoki expressed his enthusiasm for the new challenge. “Union fights with heart and conviction, which suits me. I feel that my style of play can contribute to the team’s success,” he said.

Union Berlin’s Managing Director of Men’s Football, Horst Heldt, welcomed the signing, praising Nsoki’s pedigree and mentality. “Stanley not only brings international experience from top-flight leagues, but also exactly the qualities we value at Union: he is solid in duels, focused, and versatile.

As soon as he recovers from his injury, he will bring more flexibility to our defense,” Heldt commented.

Union Berlin have made defensive reinforcements a key focus this transfer window, aiming to build on their growing reputation in German football.

After qualifying for European competition in recent seasons, the club is determined to maintain a strong presence domestically and abroad, with tactical depth and experience in the squad being viewed as essential.

Nsoki’s addition provides Union with another left-footed option at the back, capable of operating in both a central three-man defence or a traditional back four.

His ability to read the game and contribute in build-up phases aligns with the club’s evolving tactical approach under the current management.

As Union Berlin continue their pre-season preparations, attention will now turn to integrating new arrivals and finalising the squad ahead of the Bundesliga’s return.

Nsoki’s recovery remains a priority, but once fit, he is expected to play a significant role in Union’s defensive rotation.

With a new opportunity in Berlin, Stanley Nsoki will be hoping to revive his career and prove his value in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.