Werder Women have signed Belgian international Elena Dhont from Italian Serie A side US Sassuolo, completing the squad for the upcoming season. The 28‑year‑old attacker fills the last open roster spot, as club director Clemens Fritz emphasized.

Who finalized the transfer?

The deal was sealed on June 7, 2026, when Dhont officially signed her new contract. Werder opted for experience: Dhont delivered 12 goals and 7 assists in 24 appearances for Sassuolo last season. Fritz stated the signing signals a long‑term squad strategy. He also confirmed no further signings are planned because the team is already well balanced.

How does this affect the coaching staff?

Head coach Friederike Kromp now has a fresh attacking option, while the coaching team is also complete. Sebastian Kmiec, 36, joins as the new assistant coach. He came from a one‑year stint with the men’s side of Bremer SV and will support Kromp tactically. Both highlighted that Dhont’s integration will start in the summer training camp.

What does this mean for the season preparation?

With Dhont in the squad, Werder Women can diversify their attack. The team has already begun intensive summer camps to build chemistry. Despite the turnover, the goal remains clear: avoid relegation. Currently Werder sits 15th in the Bundesliga with 32 points, 8 wins, 8 draws and 18 losses from 34 games, recent form LLLDW. The defence has conceded 60 goals while the attack has scored 37 – a –23 goal difference.

Which players left the team?

Eleven players departed, including top striker Larissa Mühlhaus, who moved to Eintracht Frankfurt. Mühlhaus netted 17 goals in 26 matches last season. Her exit creates a gap that Dhont is expected to fill. Additionally, Keke Topp remains sidelined due to injury.

What’s next?

The women’s side kicks off on August 20 against league leaders Bayern Munich. Werder trails Bayern by 57 points, a massive gap. Nevertheless, the club hopes the fresh offensive spark and stable coaching staff will motivate the squad and stave off relegation. The focus now shifts to training and integrating Dhont into Friederike Kromp’s system.