In a significant turn of events for Union Berlin, goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow has announced that he will not be extending his contract with the club, which is set to expire at the end of the current season. This decision comes after the club made an effort to retain the 32-year-old custodian, who has been a reliable backup to starter Frederik Rönnow.
According to reports from Bild, Schwolow was presented with a contract extension offer that would have kept him at Union Berlin for at least another year. However, the seasoned goalkeeper has opted to decline this opportunity, citing the availability of other options for the upcoming season, potentially in the Bundesliga.
Schwolow, who joined Union Berlin from city rivals Hertha BSC in 2023, has had limited playing time, featuring in only six competitive matches for the club. His role has primarily been that of a backup keeper, stepping in during critical moments, notably when Rönnow was sidelined due to an elbow injury. Despite his limited appearances, Schwolow's professionalism and character have earned him respect within the club.
As Union Berlin currently sits in a comfortable 13th place in the Bundesliga with 37 points, the club is not embroiled in a relegation battle this season. This stability may have played a role in Schwolow's decision to seek new challenges rather than remain a secondary option. "I have informed the club about my decision," Schwolow reportedly stated, emphasizing his desire to explore new opportunities.
Schwolow's departure marks the end of a two-year stint as the consistent number two behind Rönnow, during which he has been part of 69 competitive games, including appearances in the Champions League. His experience in the Bundesliga is noteworthy, having made a total of 205 appearances across four clubs, including SC Freiburg, Hertha BSC, and FC Schalke 04.
With Schwolow's exit on the horizon, Union Berlin must now consider its options for a new backup goalkeeper. Lennart Grill, who is returning from a loan spell at Greuther Fürth, is expected to step into the role, while Carl Klaus, who has been part of the squad this season, is under contract until 2026.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Schwolow's next destination remains uncertain, but discussions surrounding his future suggest that he could remain in the Bundesliga or explore opportunities in lower divisions or abroad in countries such as Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, or Austria.
In the wake of Schwolow's decision, it raises questions about the club's strategy moving forward, particularly in securing a reliable backup to Rönnow. Fans and analysts alike are curious to see how Union Berlin will navigate this transition and what it means for the team's depth heading into the next season.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: Alexander Schwolow is ready for a new chapter in his career, and the upcoming months will be critical in determining where he lands next.
