Köln plans winter evaluation for Rav van den Berg amid injury struggles

Rav van den Berg, currently sidelined with a muscle injury, has not played for 1. FC Köln since his €8 million transfer from Middlesbrough in summer 2025. He faces stiff competition for a starting role, with three other defenders ahead of him in the lineup. Köln’s sporting managing director Thomas Kessler acknowledged that van den Berg's situation has not developed as anticipated and indicated a possibility of discussions about his future in January. Should there be no improvement in his playing opportunities, a loan or permanent transfer could be considered during the winter transfer window.

• 1:44 PMYahoo Sports — Köln set winter deadline for Rav van den Berg after disappointing €8m move from Middlesbrough