Der Kader des THW Kiel für die Handball-Saison 2026/27

THW Kiel is restructuring its squad for the 2026/27 season after finishing sixth in the Handball-Bundesliga. Following the dismissal of coach Filip Jicha, the club has signed Domen Makuc and Julian Köster to rejuvenate its backcourt and address a 33-year low in international qualification.

Why did THW Kiel fire coach Filip Jicha?

Club officials dismissed Filip Jicha after the team finished sixth in the Bundesliga. This result meant the record champions missed out on international competition for the first time in 33 years, according to club records.

The decision came as a reversal of earlier plans. While Jicha’s expiring contract had been extended in October, the disappointing season performance led to his exit. A successor has not yet been named.

Did You Know? THW Kiel’s recent sixth-place finish ended a 33-year streak of qualifying for international handball competition.

Who are the new additions to the 2026/27 roster?

The “Zebras” have focused on youth and returning talent for the 2026 summer window. Domen Makuc arrives from FC Barcelona and Julian Köster joins from VfL Gummersbach, both born in 2000.

The club also brings back youth product Jarnes Faust from TBV Lemgo Lippe. Other arrivals include Tobias Dengler from the club’s own youth system and Vincent Büchner from ThSV Eisenach, who takes the left-wing spot vacated by Magnus Landin.

How is the “Zebras” backcourt being restructured?

Managing Director Viktor Szilagyi is balancing a high volume of talent in the backcourt. The club currently faces a “luxury problem” with six right-handers competing for two positions.

For the right back position, Szilagyi continues to rely on Harald Reinkind and Emil Madsen. However, Madsen’s availability remains a concern after he missed nearly the entire 2025/26 season due to injury.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the pivot position is entering a phased transition. By securing Justus Fischer for 2027, Kiel is preparing for the inevitable expiration of contracts for Hendrik Pekeler and Lukas Laube.

What changes occurred in the pivot and wing positions?

Petter Överby will leave the team, leaving a trio of Hendrik Pekeler, Veron Nacinovic, and Lukas Laube to handle pivot duties. The club has already secured Justus Fischer to join in the summer of 2027.

On the wing, Magnus Landin departed for Aalborg Handbold to join his brother, Niklas. Vincent Büchner has been signed to fill that vacancy.

Summer 2026 Roster Movement

Arrivals: Julian Köster, Domen Makuc, Jarnes Faust, Tobias Dengler, Vincent Büchner.

THW Kiel – Wir sind Kiel! – Kader 2016/17

Departures: Mykola Bilyk (HC Kriens-Luzern), Bence Imre (One Veszprem HC), Magnus Landin (Aalborg Handbold), Leon Nowottny (HSV Hamburg), Petter Överby (HSG Wetzlar), Mohab Abdelhak (HC Vardar 1961 Skopje), and Jesse Dahmke.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the current coach of THW Kiel?
The club has not yet named a successor following the dismissal of Filip Jicha.

Which prominent players left the team for the 2026/27 season?
Key departures include Bence Imre, Mykola Bilyk, and Magnus Landin.

When will Justus Fischer join the squad?
Justus Fischer is scheduled to join THW Kiel in the summer of 2027.

Do you think a youth-focused roster overhaul is the right move for a club missing international play?