Christian Ilzer reveals integration plans for Gift Orban in Hoffenheim’s starting lineup

By Monsurah Olatunji

Hoffenheim manager Christian Ilzer has shared his plans to gradually incorporate Nigerian forward Gift Orban into the team’s starting lineup as he continues to adapt to life in the Bundesliga.

Orban, who struggled for playing time at Lyon, found himself out of form before moving to Hoffenheim in the January transfer window.

The 22-year-old has since rediscovered his rhythm on the pitch, scoring twice in his first four league games, both coming off the bench.

His performances have sparked calls from fans to see more of him in the starting XI.

Despite the initial transition period, Orban’s two goals in just four matches place him fourth on Hoffenheim’s goal-scoring chart, trailing behind Marius Bülter (4), Adam Hlozek (6), and Andrej Kramaric (7).

Ilzer has acknowledged Orban’s potential but has emphasized the need for patience as the striker continues his integration into the squad.

“He usually has to prove himself in short appearances,” Ilzer said, as quoted by Liga Insider.

“We are working on his integration bit by bit, but we have already made a lot of progress. He can already do it, but he will be able to help us a lot more in the future.”

Hoffenheim, currently sitting 15th in the Bundesliga table, are four points clear of the relegation zone.

The Bundesliga team has faced challenges in scoring goals, and Ilzer hopes that with more integration, Orban will help strengthen their attacking options.