Nürnberg Faces Darmstadt with Pinola at the Helm

1. FC Nürnberg will travel to face SV Darmstadt 98 this Friday with a notable change on the sideline. Head coach Miroslav Klose is suspended for the match following a red card in a recent contest against Elversberg, meaning assistant coach Javier Pinola will take charge.

Pinola Steps Up: A Familiar Face Returns to the Sideline

Javier Pinola, who rejoined the club in the summer of 2024 as a co-trainer, will assume responsibility for the team during Klose’s one-match suspension. Klose expressed full confidence in Pinola’s ability to lead, stating that preparations are complete and clear procedures are in place. The preparation is done, clear processes have been discussed, Klose said.

Pinola previously enjoyed a successful playing career with 1. FC Nürnberg, playing for the club from 2005 to 2015 and being part of the 2007 Pokal (German Cup) winning team. He returned to the club after a stint as a co-trainer at River Plate.

Team News: Yilmaz Out, Porstner Potentially In

In addition to Klose’s suspension, Nürnberg will be without left-back Berkay Yilmaz, who is serving a suspension due to accumulated yellow cards. This could open the door for 18-year-old Eric Porstner to make his first start for the club.

Upfront, Piet Scobel is expected to lead the attack after impressing with two goals against Elversberg.

Klose to Observe from the Stands

Regulations prevent Klose from having any contact with the bench during the match. He is prohibited from being within the stadium’s interior for 30 minutes before and after kickoff. There will be no contact between him and the bench during the game, according to reports.

FAQ

• Why is Miroslav Klose suspended? He received a red card during the match against Elversberg.
• Who will coach Nürnberg against Darmstadt? Javier Pinola will take charge as head coach.
• Who is Javier Pinola? He is a former Nürnberg player and current co-trainer.