The women’s team of 1. FC Union Berlin has bolstered its roster with two key signings during the winter transfer window. Midfielder Leonie Köster joins from Swiss side FC Basel 1893, and promising striker Nele Bauereisen arrives from 1. FC Nürnberg, who currently leads the 2. Bundesliga.
Leonie Köster, 23, is considered an adaptable player who can navigate the midfield with both attacking and defensive prowess. Born in Munich, she began her footballing career at TSV Grünwald and SC München before making her way to FC Bayern’s youth ranks in 2015. During her time at Bayern, she showcased her talent by winning the German championship with the B juniors and following it up with the 2. Bundesliga title with Bayern II in 2019.
Köster made her Bundesliga debut for SG Eintracht Frankfurt, coming off the bench against SGS Essen and has amassed significant experience by playing for all of Germany's youth teams up to the U19 level. Her notable achievements include contributing to her teams’ success at the European Championships, where she won silver medals with both the U17 and U19 squads.
Before her move to Union Berlin, Köster played 36 matches with Basel, scoring six goals and providing two assists. She expressed her enthusiasm about joining Union, saying, "It’s impressive how 1. FC Union Berlin have developed over the past few years and how the team's football has inspired the fans. The club's clear vision fits perfectly with my own goals, and that's why I'm even more excited about our shared future together." Jennifer Zietz, the Director of Women’s Professional Football at Union Berlin, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Leonie is a young midfielder who combines attacking and defensive strengths and will be a key addition to our team. She brings valuable experience from both Germany and abroad, which is why we are delighted to welcome her to our team."
Meanwhile, Nele Bauereisen, who will turn 21 soon, has made headlines herself as she joins Union Berlin following her tenure at 1. FC Nürnberg, where she played for three and a half years. Born in Ansbach, Bauereisen got her start with SV 67 Weinberg before making her mark at Nürnberg by scoring her first senior goal at just 16 years old. Her goal was part of a convincing DFB Pokal win against 1. FFV Erfurt.
During her time at 1. FC Nürnberg, Bauereisen made 60 appearances, helping the club secure promotion to the Bundesliga. After one season at the top tier, she and the club were relegated back to the second division. Nonetheless, her statistics this season have been impressive; she has scored six goals across 13 league appearances, making her one of the most dangerous players on her team.
Bauereisen commented on her move, highlighting her excitement: "When I played against Union in the first half of the season, I was thrilled by the way the team performed. Union plays an attacking and attractive brand of football, which suits my style perfectly. I'm confident I can help the team.” Zietz noted, "With Nele, we’re gaining an attacking player who is sure-footed and dangerous on both feet. She has shown impressive qualities at 1. FC Nürnberg and has demonstrated her goal-scoring ability this season. We are convinced she will strengthen our attacking play and welcome her to Köpenick."
The strategic signings of Köster and Bauereisen reflect 1. FC Union Berlin’s ambitions for the future, aiming to build on the momentum they gained last season. With Köster’s versatility and experience paired with Bauereisen’s youth and talent, Union Berlin is poised for what they hope will be a successful campaign.
It’s clear the club is committed to its growth, enhancing their roster with players who not only bring skill but also have the potential to develop within the squad. The upcoming season presents new challenges, but with these signings, Union Berlin’s women’s team looks ready to compete at higher levels and aim for success.