Inga Schuldt, 29-year-old goalkeeper of Hamburger SV, moves to 1. FC Köln and signs a two-year contract. The transfer comes after 22 league appearances for HSV and begins the new season in the Frauen-Bundesliga.
Why did Inga Schuldt leave HSV?
Schuldt says the talks with Köln were "very straightforward and transparent." She sees the chance to start as a challenger in Köln’s goalkeeper squad and then earn a spot in goal. The move also gives her the opportunity to contribute to the development of women’s football in Germany, which she calls "really impressive."
What does the transfer mean for HSV?
HSV loses an experienced goalkeeper who kept clean sheets in twelve matches last season and secured the club’s survival. Her departure leaves a gap in the squad that coach Nicole Bender-Rummler must fill. The club must either sign a new goalkeeper or move a central defender into goal - both options will affect the team’s defence.
Current situation of HSV in the professional arena
While the women’s team reorganises around Schuldt’s exit, HSV’s men’s side fights for survival in the Bundesliga: 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 situation raises the pressure to act quickly in the women’s department this summer.
What does Inga Schuldt expect at Köln?
At Köln, Schuldt will initially compete for the starting goalkeeper spot. Coach 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 place between the posts with ambition and support the team with reliable back-up.
What happens after the transfer?
1. FC Köln has already announced several new signings to strengthen the 2026/27 season. Schuldt is expected to arrive in July for the training camp and fight for a place in the starting eleven. For HSV, Schuldt’s departure means the season planning now also involves searching for a new number one in goal.
