Hertha BSC Remains Hopeful Amidst Challenging Start

As the 2. Bundesliga season progresses, Hertha BSC faces a daunting challenge with a current record of four matches without a victory. The club's head coach, Stefan Leitl, remains resolute despite the team's struggles, emphasizing that the ambition for promotion to the Bundesliga remains intact.

Before a pivotal match against Hannover 96, where he previously managed, Leitl noted that the team's current predicament is not reflective of their potential. With only two points accrued thus far and sitting at the bottom of the table, he insists that there are still 90 points available for the taking.

"We are at Hertha. We are playing in the 2. Liga, which cannot be our home," Leitl remarked, reinforcing the club's historical aspirations despite recent setbacks. The upcoming match against Hannover, who have enjoyed a perfect start with four consecutive wins, presents a significant test for the beleaguered Berlin side.

Defensive issues continue to plague Hertha, as they navigate injuries and suspensions affecting key players. With three central defenders--Pascal Klemens, John Anthony Brooks, and Linus Gechter--missing, Leitl is contemplating tactical changes, including a potential switch from a three-man defense to a four-man setup.

Reflecting on his return to Hannover, Leitl described the situation as unique but devoid of bitterness regarding the club's resurgence. Instead, his focus remains on improving Hertha's performance rather than dwelling on past disappointments. "I am not frustrated about their success; I am more focused on our own underperformance," he stated.

Leitl expects his squad to elevate their energy levels and play cohesively. He believes that by concentrating on their own game and functioning as a unit, they can begin to secure points and improve their standing in the league.

In the context of personnel, team captain Fabian Reese, still seeking his first goal of the season, has been defended by Leitl, who aims to position him to maximize his impact on the field. Additionally, Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson is set to return to the lineup after recovering from a recent injury sustained during a World Cup qualifying match.