Werder Bremen have loaned midfielder Noah Gesser from Ajax Amsterdam until the end of the season. German outlet Bild reported the deal on Tuesday, confirming the club's search for cover for the injured Jens Stage.
The 21-year-old Dutchman arrives on a straight loan without an option to buy. Gesser is expected to be integrated into the squad for the upcoming match. Werder began the Bundesliga season with a defeat and sit in 15th place in the standings after one game. With just zero points from the opening match, the team is three points behind leaders Bayern Munich.
Who is the new midfielder?
Noah Gesser is a defensively-minded midfielder who came through the Ajax youth academy. He has had limited first-team minutes in the Eredivisie but is regarded as a talented ball-winner. At Werder, he is expected to fill the role of Jens Stage, who is currently sidelined alongside Felix Agu on the injuries list. Coach Ole Werner urgently needs reinforcements for the defensive midfield area.
The team conceded four goals while scoring only one in their first outing. This defensive vulnerability is what Gesser is meant to address. His playing style fits Werner's system, which relies on intense pressing.
How does he fit the current situation?
The signing is a direct response to the squad's shortage. Jens Stage is expected to be out for several weeks. Without another holding midfielder, the team would have been stretched too thin in the centre of the park. Gesser provides a replacement for Stage without a long-term commitment.
The current league position makes quick improvements essential. With zero points and a goal difference of minus three, Werder need to start picking up points immediately. Their next fixture is a tough home match against third-placed RB Leipzig on September 5th. All details on the season's schedule can be found on the fixtures page.
What does this mean for the midfield?
Gesser's arrival gives Werner more tactical options. Previously, other players had to shift out of position to cover the defensive midfield role. Now the coach can call upon a specialised player. This should provide more stability for the whole team.
The season has only just started, but the early data indicates a need for action. A win against Leipzig would send an important message. The team will need to demonstrate in the coming weeks whether the new signing has the desired effect. All current player performance data is available on the stats page.
Gesser is expected to wear the number 28 shirt. His loan deal with Ajax Amsterdam runs until 30 June 2027.
