Philipp Treu, born in Heidelberg, joined SC Freiburg’s academy aged 16 and was part of the U19 side that won the DFB-Pokal in 2018. He moved up to play for the club’s U23s a year later and then won promotion with them to the third division in 2021, making a total of 62 competitive appearances for SC’s reserves at this level. After finishing second in the 3. Liga in 2023, Treu moved up another division to sign for FC St. Pauli. The Kiezkicker won promotion in his first season and he then played in 35 competitive matches for them in 2024/25.

“Philipp has developed massively and we’re really pleased that he’s returned to SC,” said sporting director Klemens Hartenbach. “Philipp is a resolute defender and can also provide a threat in the final third at the other end of the pitch. He also provides a good mix of stamina and lots of sprints. There’s no doubt about his character and attitude either. It’s also an advantage that he already knows a lot of faces here and is familiar with the setup already.”

Philipp Treu added: “I think I was able to massively develop my game at St. Pauli and performed well in my first year in the Bundesliga. I now want to take the next step in my development with Freiburg. I know a lot of people here from my time in the academy and know what kind of football is played in Freiburg. I’m now looking forward to the new Bundesliga season and our matches in the Europa League – something I’ve only previously experienced as a fan in Freiburg.”

The details of his contract will remain undisclosed. Philipp Treu will wear the number 29 shirt at SC.