Steve Mounié struggles in Bundesliga debut with FC Augsburg

Steve Mounié’s first half-season at FC Augsburg has been far from what he envisioned. After leaving Stade Brestois for the Bundesliga, the Beninese striker has found himself struggling for game time and form, with only sporadic appearances to show for his efforts.

The 29-year-old joined Augsburg after a productive stint at Brest, where he played three seasons in Ligue 1.

Seeking a fresh challenge, Mounié opted for the Bundesliga, hoping to prove himself in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

“I had two choices: continue in the Champions League with Brest or discover a new league. It was a difficult decision to make, but I needed a new challenge at 30.

I left Brest with a lot of regrets, but I am convinced that I made the right choice,” he said.

However, his transition to German football has been challenging. Over the first 11 matchdays of the Bundesliga, Mounié has featured in just seven games, totaling a mere 195 minutes with only one start.

This lack of playing time contrasts sharply with the consistency he enjoyed in Ligue 1.

Despite the setback, Mounié remains optimistic: “I am confident. I will find my best level very quickly.”

Pre-Season Setbacks

Mounié attributes his slow start to a disrupted pre-season. Physical issues sidelined him during critical preparation weeks, leaving him behind in the pecking order among Augsburg’s forwards, including standout performer Samuel Essence.

“I missed part of the preparation because of some physical problems. So I fell a little behind the other attackers,” he admitted.

The adaptation to Bundesliga football has also been a steep learning curve. While Mounié sees similarities with the Premier League—a competition he experienced during his time at Huddersfield Town—he acknowledges the unique demands of the German league.

“I find that there are a lot of similarities between the Premier League and the Bundesliga in terms of intensity.

The qualities of the opponents are very high, we find qualities that we don’t necessarily find in Ligue 1. However, the game is a little more tactical, more calm and more thoughtful,” he observed.

Aiming for a Comeback

Mounié remains determined to turn his season around. With the January break approaching, he views it as an opportunity to regain his fitness and fully integrate into the team.

His focus is on contributing more meaningfully to Augsburg’s campaign and replicating the form that made him a key player in Ligue 1.

Despite his struggles at club level, Mounié has found success on the international stage, scoring twice and providing an assist in Benin’s last five matches.

This continued impact with the national team underscores his ability and potential for a strong comeback in the Bundesliga.

The road ahead may be challenging, but Mounié is committed to proving his worth and making his mark in German football.