Hamburger SV loses its first‑choice goalkeeper Inga Schuldt, who moves to 1. FC Köln and signs a two‑year contract. The 29‑year‑old German, who featured in 22 league matches for HSV, begins the new season in the Google Pixel Women’s Bundesliga with the Cologne club.

Why did Inga Schuldt leave HSV?

Schuldt says talks with Köln were "very straightforward and transparent." She sees the chance to start as a challenger in Köln’s goalkeeper group and then fight for the starting spot. The move also lets her take part in the development of women’s football in Germany, which she calls "truly impressive."

What does the transfer mean for HSV?

HSV therefore loses an experienced keeper who kept a clean sheet twelve times last season and helped secure the club’s stay in the top flight. Her departure creates a gap that coach Nicole Bender‑Rummler must fill, either by signing a new goalkeeper or promoting a field player to the net – both affecting the team’s defensive stability.

How is HSV’s first‑team situation right now?

While the women’s side reorganises after Schuldt’s exit, HSV’s men’s team is fighting to avoid relegation: the club sits 13th with 38 points, 9 wins, 11 draws and 14 losses from 34 games, most recently a 1‑1 draw against Bayer Leverkusen on 16 May 2026. This pressure adds urgency to act quickly in the women’s squad as well.

What awaits Inga Schuldt at Köln?

In Köln, Schuldt will initially compete for the starting role. Director of Women’s and Girls’ Football Nicole Bender‑Rummler (FC Köln) believes Schuldt’s "strength on the line and clean technique" will enrich the team in training and matches. Schuldt herself wants to earn the spot between the posts with ambition and give the squad reliable backing.

What’s next after the transfer?

1. FC Köln has already announced several new signings to strengthen the 2026/27 campaign. Schuldt is expected to join the pre‑season camp in July and fight for the starting eleven. For HSV, Schuldt’s farewell means the club must now focus on finding a new number 1 goalkeeper for the upcoming season.