Degen addresses Oteles' and Metinho's futures at FC Basel

FC Basel kick off pre-season with clear statements

FC Basel played Juventus Turin to a 0:0 draw in their pre-season clash, leaving the team without a win in summer preparation. A red card for Mirko Salvi overshadowed the match, but the most important words came afterward in the press area: sporting director Valentin Stocker and head coach Stephan Lichtsteiner shared insights into the team’s current state. With 73 points, FC Basel leads the Super League by 10 points over Servette FC and has won four of its last five games (WLWWW). The side has scored 91 goals and conceded just 43 (+48 goal difference).

What happened in the test match?

The game against Juventus ended goalless, yet the defense stood firm. Lichtsteiner stressed after the final whistle that the attack still has room for improvement, especially in vertical play. «We need to get into depth faster,» the coach said. The red card for Salvi sparked debate, but the focus now shifts to the tasks ahead. With 22 wins, seven draws and nine losses from 38 games, FC Basel has built a solid foundation for the new season.

Why Lichtsteiner criticizes the attack

Lichtsteiner’s analysis was blunt: «Our verticality is still missing. We must use the spaces better.» Particularly in the final third, the team lacks dynamism. Chances were limited despite FC Basel’s strong offensive record of 91 goals scored. The defense, anchored by the new goalkeeper, held firm, conceding just 43 goals. The 10-point lead over Servette FC gives the team room to experiment in pre-season.

Degen addresses Oteles’ and Metinho’s futures

Sporting director Valentin Stocker confirmed that incoming transfers are «more or less done.» Yet the futures of Otele and Metinho remain open. Degen spoke publicly for the first time, hinting both players could feature next season. «We have clear plans for everyone,» Degen said. Both Brazilians have battled injuries recently, but their experience could help the team. Pre-season continues, and fans await clarity on the starting XI.

What’s next for FC Basel?

Pre-season rolls on, with Lichtsteiner targeting targeted offensive upgrades. Stocker stressed the squad is now stable, though final decisions on Oteles and Metinho are pending. The next test awaits, and fans crave clarity. With a 10-point cushion over Servette FC, FC Basel has time, but rivals won’t sleep. The season starts soon, and every point counts.