Unforeseen Changes
Some statements don’t hold up over time, and the supporters of Düsseldorf found this out recently.
I truly enjoy being here. It feels great to be in a place where I have such a significant role within the squad,
Ísak Jóhannesson expressed at the winter training camp to “Bild”, instilling hope in fans.
I believe in what we’re building, even if it takes a while. I’m someone who thinks beyond the immediate future.
Signs of a Growing Affection?
He reaffirmed this in February when he celebrated a goal by kissing the Fortuna badge during a penalty shot in the derby against 1. FC Köln. Was this the beginning of a beautiful journey?
Unfortunately, the reality turned out to be different. After proclaiming his love for the club, he backtracked in May following his final game in the second division:
I cherish this club, but who knows what the future holds?
Did he sense at that moment it would be his last match for Fortuna?
Jóhannesson aimed to elevate his career, and he did just that. During the summer transfer window, he signed with Bundesliga club 1. FC Köln until 2030, shocking many Fortuna fans who responded with harsh comments online, prompting him to temporarily disable his comment function.
If there were any Düsseldorf fans who still appreciated him, they likely felt differently after he stated ahead of the Gladbach derby:
I have faced FC with Düsseldorf before, but this clash with Gladbach carries even more importance.
The Right Fit for the Derby?
As he prepares for the derby on Saturday evening (6:30 PM), Jóhannesson appears to resonate with the sentiments of his new supporters in Cologne. He revealed his excitement for the encounter against Gladbach, saying,
I relish playing in such derby matches.
The Icelandic international has had substantial experience in tense match atmospheres in Germany. While with FC Copenhagen, he faced Bröndby IF five times, only losing once (with two wins and two draws). He is well-acquainted with high-energy crowd environments.
Cologne’s Potential Star
However, his value to Köln in the match against Gladbach extends beyond crowd experience. He consistently distributes the ball and gives maximum effort, averaging 12.08 kilometers per game, placing him among the top 40 players in the Bundesliga. His determination to support the team will be vital in this intense derby.
Through his efforts, Ísak Jóhannesson has begun to make an impression on Köln’s gameplay and seems to be settling well into the team. Fans are left wondering if he has what it takes to become a beloved figure in Cologne. After his transfer, he mentioned,
I aspire to remain here for a long time.
All supporters hope this statement ages positively and does not lead to another transfer to a rival club shortly.
