Hannover 96 signs Pascal Loretz as new No. 1

Hannover 96 announced on July 5 2026 that it has signed 23‑year‑old Swiss international goalkeeper Pascal Loretz. The 1.92 m tall keeper has agreed to a contract until summer 2029 and is expected to take the starting spot immediately. The move addresses a leaky defence that has already conceded 44 goals this season.

Why Loretz is the right fit

Loretz, most recently with FC Zürich, posted 12 clean‑sheet matches and a 78 % save rate last season. His experience from international friendlies bolsters Hannover 96’s back line, which currently sits 4th in the 2. Bundesliga (60 points, 16 wins, 12 draws, 6 losses). The club hopes he will help narrow the 10‑point gap to leaders FC Schalke 04.

Impact on the current campaign

After a 3‑3 draw with 1. FC Nürnberg on May 17 2026, Hannover 96 remained unbeaten in its last five games (DDDDD). The defence, however, has allowed too many goals – 44 conceded while scoring 60. Loretz is set to step straight into the goal, stabilising the run‑in and securing the final three fixtures before the season ends. He could debut in the next home match against FC St. Pauli.

What does this mean for rivals?

Signing a young yet already capped keeper sends a strong signal to promotion rivals. While FC Schalke 04 leads by 10 points, Hannover 96 could close the gap faster with a solid defence. Coach Daniel Bauernfeind stresses that Loretz will also act as a leader on the pitch.

Outlook: What’s next?

In the coming weeks Loretz will intensify training with the first‑team squad. The club aims to tighten the back line and boost attacking output by the end of August, keeping promotion in sight. Fans can expect a thrilling season finale where every save may count.

Live data (as of July 9 2026): Hannover 96 sits 4th in the 2. Bundesliga with 60 points, 16 wins, 12 draws and 6 losses. The season tally reads 60 goals scored and 44 conceded (+16 goal difference). The team trails league leaders Schalke 04 by 10 points. The last result was a 3‑3 draw against 1. FC Nürnberg on May 17 2026, and recent form over the last five games is DDDDD (unbeaten).