German international goalkeeper Ron-Robert Zieler has completed a move to 1. FC Köln, signing a two-year contract with the Bundesliga newcomer. The transfer was officially confirmed by the club on Monday evening.
FC Köln sporting director Thomas Kessler highlighted Zieler’s leadership qualities as a key factor in the decision to bring him to the club. “His leadership, both on and off the pitch and his willingness to take responsibility were decisive factors for us” Kessler stated. “Ron was an absolute desired player in our squad planning and will make a valuable contribution to a successful season.
Zieler’s connection to FC Köln runs deep, having been developed within the club’s youth academy between 1999 and 2005 before progressing to Manchester United’s youth system. He also spent a season on loan with the club in 2020/21.
The 36-year-old goalkeeper expressed his satisfaction with the move, emphasizing his roots with the club. “This is my home” Zieler commented. “From the beginning, I felt a great level of appreciation from FC and a clear perspective was outlined for me after my active career, which was extremely important. That’s why the decision to join my home club was made, where I will give my all for at least two years to help the team succeed.
Zieler initially joined Hannover 96 in 2010 after returning from England. He quickly established himself as a key player, appearing in 185 Bundesliga matches and 25 European fixtures, earning him a place in the German national team.
In 2014, Zieler was part of the squad that won the World Cup in Brazil. He subsequently had spells with Leicester City (nine Premier League appearances) and VfB Stuttgart (68 Bundesliga appearances) before rejoining Hannover 96 in 2019 for a second stint in the second division. He has made 158 appearances for 96 during his two periods with the club.