Gift Orban admits tough debut season at Hoffenheim, vows to bounce back

By Wale Mustapha

Nigerian striker Gift Orban has described his first season in the Bundesliga with TSG Hoffenheim as “rough,” following a challenging debut campaign marked by limited playing time and inconsistent form.

The 22-year-old joined Hoffenheim from French club Olympique Lyon in January for a reported €9 million fee but has struggled to secure a regular starting role in Pellegrino Matarazzo’s side.

Orban made 13 league appearances, scoring four goals for the Village club, but admitted that the season did not go as planned.

“It’s been a rough season, no doubt. Things didn’t go how I planned, but I’ve kept my head down and kept grinding,” Orban wrote on social media platform X.

“The season’s almost over, and I’m focused on finishing strong and coming back better.”

Despite the challenges, the former Gent forward remains optimistic about his development and is aiming to return stronger in the next campaign as he continues to adapt to life in the German top flight.

Orban was previously linked with a move to the Premier League before choosing to continue his development in Germany.