Füchse berlin Secure future with Long-Term Contracts for Four Key Players
Berlin’s handball powerhouse, Füchse berlin, has solidified its commitment to homegrown talent, securing the futures of Nils Lichtlein, Matthes Langhoff, Tim Freihöfer, and Lasse Ludwig with contract extensions through 2030.
The proclamation, made shortly after Christmas, represents a significant victory for the club’s developmental ideology and promises continued success for years to come. These extensions are a testament to the players’ contributions to the club’s recent championship win and their potential for continued growth.
Füchse berlin’s approach,characterized by a pathway from the club’s youth academy through a dual playing arrangement with 1. VfL Potsdam and ultimately to the Champions league, has proven remarkably effective. Players benefit from top-tier training facilities and early exposure to professional athletes, creating a fertile environment for growth. Today, Lichtlein, Langhoff, Freihöfer, and Ludwig are not only key performers under coach Nicole Krickau but also instrumental figures in the club’s historic championship win.
“This is our DNA-developing players from the bottom up,” stated a senior club official. “Alongside Fabian Wiede and Paul Drux, these four players represent this club and its philosophy like no others.” The club’s faith in its young players has demonstrably paid off, with the extended contracts serving as a testament to their value.
The quartet also boasts international recognition, having celebrated German youth championships and a U21 world championship title in Berlin in 2023. all four are currently part of the extended German national team squad preparing for the upcoming European Championship, with lichtlein and Langhoff earning spots on the final roster.
The club’s managing director emphasized the importance of continued development, highlighting the unique qualities each player brings to the team.Lichtlein,described as a player with extraordinary speed and foresight,is poised to become a central figure for both Füchse Berlin and the national team. Ludwig, having earned increased playing time, is viewed as a potential long-term number one goalkeeper. Freihöfer is currently considered one of the world’s best left wings, while Langhoff is a crucial defensive player with growing offensive capabilities. A graphic illustrating the players' key statistics and progression over the past five seasons would be a valuable addition here.
Head Coach and Sporting Director Nicolej Krickau echoed this sentiment, expressing delight at securing these “crucial building blocks” for the future. “Lasse has developed very well in recent years,and we will certainly continue to drive his development,” Krickau said. “Tim is a huge part of our team’s core…Matthes has already played a major role this season…Nils will shape our attacking play enormously in the future.”
The players themselves expressed their gratitude and commitment to the club and the city of Berlin. Ludwig emphasized his strong connection to the club’s values and the sense of belonging he feels in Berlin, having built a life with his girlfriend in the city. Lichtlein highlighted the special experience of playing in front of the passionate Berlin fans alongside his friends. Freihöfer spoke of the agreeable environment that allowed him to flourish as a professional handball player, while Langhoff celebrated the enduring friendships forged through years of playing together, starting in the youth teams.
“I’m incredibly happy to continue being part of the Füchse Berlin project,” said Ludwig. “I identify 100 percent with the club’s values and DNA and feel completely at home in the club and in the city.”
“Playing in berlin in front of these amazing fans is something special with these guys,” added Lichtlein.
“The trust I continue to feel from the club makes Berlin a home for me,” Freihöfer stated.
“Extending together with the guys is a marvelous feeling,” concluded Langhoff. “We’ve been here together for so many years and have gone through everything.”
The contract extensions represent more than just securing talented players; they embody a prosperous model for developing world-class athletes and ensuring a luminous future for Füchse Berlin.
