Changes in the squad

So far F.C. Copenhagen has signed three new players to the first team squad: the Danish International goalkeeper Kim Christensen, the Icelandic central defencer Sölvi Ottesen and the Brazilian midfielder Claudemir.

 

The three new signings all have the potential to fight for a place in the starting line-up – but the competition is fierce, as it should be, and no one can feel "safe" in Ståle Solbakkens squad.

 

 

Kim Christensen has recently played for IFK Gothenburg in Allsvenskan, and he almost earned a place in the Danish squad for the World Cup in South Africa. Ironically, his place was snatched by Jesper Christiansen, who now has left Copenhagen to play in Elfsborg in Sweden… and Elfsborg is the former club of Kim’s goalkeeper-colleague in Copenhagen, Johan Wiland, who seems to be Ståle Solbakkens first choice for the starting line-up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sölvi Ottesen proved to be one of the strongest central defenders in the Superleague last season, when he played for SønderjyskE, who narrowly escaped relegation on the very last day of the season. 26 year old Sölvi, who is a regular Icelandic international, is also facing a strong competition in the squad, which also includes central defenders Mikael Antonsson, Mathias ‘Zanka’ Jørgensen and Peter Larsson, while former captain, Ulrik Laursen, has decided to end his career.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To replace the versatile Canadian ace Atiba Hutchinson, who has left the club for PSV Eindhoven, Copenhagen has signed Brazilian midfielder Claudemir Domingues de Souza from Vitesse Arnhem in the Dutch Eresdivisie, where he has been a regular during the last two seasons. Claudemir was also wanted by Dutch top clubs, but F.C. Copenhagens reputation and impressing international results during the last 5 years contributed to the deal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also, the talented young striker Kenneth Zohore has been promoted to the first team squad. In March 2010, he became the youngest player in the Danish Superleague, when he made his debut at the age of 16 years and 35 days. It was his only appearance last season, but in spite of his young age, it will not be a surprise if he comes into action again next season.