by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Eintracht Frankfurt appears to have found a way to tackle the near-impossible task of replacing top striker Omar Marmoush. Tears had barely dried only days after the popular crowd-pleaser left for Manchester City, and the 2022 Euro League winner is now heading for new shores.
Since a man-to-man replacement appears impossible, the German League's upstart is spreading the load across several players. Ahead of the delicate first flight encounter in Moenchengladbach this Saturday evening, the replacement selections cover all age groups, including 22-year-old Marseille striker Elye Wahi, silverback Michy Batshuayi (31/Galatasaray), and Hugo Ekitike (22).
Frankfurt sporting director Markus Kroesche stated that he has secured speed, experience, and ambition, in addition to benefiting from a profitable Marmoush deal reportedly worth up to 80 million euros. While Wahi represents an effective option for deep runs, former Dortmund spearhead Batshuayi can rely on experience gained in several European leagues, the Bundesliga, and with the Belgium national team (27 goals in 55 internationals). Since joining in 2024, Ekitike has proven to be an effective contributor, scoring 15 goals in 32 games - second only to Marmoush.
"He is more the playing type acting around the box coming along with various moves," Kroesche said praising the team's increased options. "We all agreed it is impossible to find a replacement in the person of only one player. Therefore, it seems a smart solution, and enjoy the new options," Kroesche added. "When Omar was around most things were focused on him."
"We face more and more teams counting on a robust defense," the official said.
Moreover, Frankfurt's new front line sends a message to rival clubs regarding qualification for next season's Champions League campaign, while also highlighting the positive revenue generated by the deal, with the club reinvesting only 23 million euros. Although the club is not setting new goals like Champions League participation, that still appears to be the realistic target.
Kroesche reaffirmed his reputation as one of Germany's best managing directors, known for his calm demeanor, as preparations continue behind closed doors. While competitors such as Bayern, Leverkusen, Dortmund, and Leipzig may have an edge in squad investments, Frankfurt's robust team spirit appears to be enough to challenge the established clubs.
Despite the team's high-flying performance, the Frankfurt official remains relaxed after the side reached the last 16 in the 2024-2025 Euro League. "Our goal is to constantly play on the international stage," he said, leaving the door open for the current third-placed team in the league to pursue Champions League dreams. ■
