Norwich City have announced the signing of Christoph Zimmermann, who has been brought into the club as a free transfer on a 2-year deal.
The 23-year-old is a defensive minded player, usually deployed as a centre-back. Zimmermann was part of the Dortmund II side which conceded just 25 goals, the lowest amount in the German 4th division last season.
The Canaries seem to be getting their business done and dusted early this transfer window, as they prepare for their first season with a new structure within the club. Webber and Farke are obviously working very close together, and considering the little amount of money spent so far, have made some very smart buy’s.
To help fans learn more about the new singing, we’ve created a fact file which will, hopefully, help our readers learn a lot more about the man who could prove pivotal in the heart of the City defence this season.
Where did Zimmermann start off?
Christoph Zimmermann started off his career at SC Düsseldorf-West Jugend before making a switch to Bundesliga giants Borussia Monchengladbach. He went through the ranks at the German club, before making appearances for the reserve side. Although he was never able to quite meet the demands of the first team, and at the start of the 2014/15 season was released.
Show's his leadership qualities
Borussia Dortmund hired the services of the German centre-back and played under David Wagner as well as Daniel Farke. Zimmermann has been at the heart of the Dortmund II defense for three seasons and was made captain by Wagner for the 2015-16 season, which highlights Zimmerman’s leadership ability.
He has trained with the first-team
The 24-year-old German has spent the majority of time playing in the Regionalliga West, which is the 4th tier of German football. However, Zimmermann has played in the 3rd tier of German football. Whilst playing in the 3rd division for Dortmund II in 2014, he was called up for a training camp with the first team, showing he was highly rated by coach Jurgen Klopp.
A centre-back who provides cover
Zimmermann is usually deployed in the centre-back position, but will also be able to provide cover for both the full-backs. The 24-year-old featured occasionally for Borussia Monchengladbach II in the LB/RB position, but due to his size and build is more effective centrally.
Desire to play in England
When speaking to the Norwich Official website, the player expressed his desire to play in England. When he was younger, he would always watch the Premier League highlights, and now believes his game is suited in the way we play. Only time will tell to see if he’s correct.