Born in Überlingen, Höfler joined the Freiburg Football School in 2005 at the age of 15 and went on to progress through every youth team at the club, all the way through to the second team, for whom he has made 80 appearances to date. Höfler enjoyed major success even during his academy years, winning the German U19 title in 2008 before lifting the U19 DFB-Pokal a year later. After two years on loan at FC Erzgebirge Aue, the now 36-year-old midfielder established himself as a permanent fixture in SC’s first team and went on to make 383 competitive appearances for SC across the Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga, the DFB-Pokal and the Europa League.

“It feels a bit like coming home for me. I lived here at the Football School for four years and then played for the second team. I have so many memories from that time. I still absolutely love playing football and, at the same time, I’m looking forward to passing on the experience I’ve gained over the past few years to the young players and supporting them on their journey,” said Nicolas Höfler.

“We’re absolutely delighted that Chicco will be strengthening our U23s from next season,” said Martin Schweizer, sporting director of the Freiburg Football School. “With his experience and understanding of the game, he can play an enormously important role for our young players both on and off the pitch. Chicco knows SC Freiburg and the academy like few others, which makes it all the nicer that this journey is now coming full circle for him and for us.”

The details of the contract will remain undisclosed. Welcome back to the academy, Chicco!

Photo: SC Freiburg