Adam Hlozek from TSG Hoffenheim has been nominated for the Czech national team and will be heading to the World Cup, despite only playing 37 minutes in the Bundesliga. His coach has now explained the reasons behind this decision.
When asked if the 23-year-old forward’s nomination wasn’t a risk, national coach Miroslav Koubek responded to kicker by saying, «No, because we know him, we know what kind of player he is and how he can help us.»
The 74-year-old, who is the oldest national coach in Czech history, elaborated: «Before the nomination, I watched his six minutes, including stoppage time, from the 1-0 win against Bremen in May. He had four game situations there and solved them all perfectly. And that surprised me. Physically, he looked excellent. Besides, a German club wouldn’t play a player who isn’t fully fit.»
Hlozek promptly repaid the trust in the recent 2-0 friendly victory against Kosovo last Sunday. Hlozek initiated the opening goal by Tomas Ladra (12th minute) and then scored the second goal himself (32nd minute) – his first international goal in almost a year.
Hlozek is Hoffenheim’s Record Transfer
Hlozek, who remains Hoffenheim’s record transfer to date with a fee of 18 million Euros, has recently experienced a period of numerous injuries. He only made five appearances last season, all as a substitute. At the end of April, he also played 31 minutes for Hoffenheim’s second team in the 3. Liga.
«He showed a good performance, was involved in both goals, but that’s not the deciding factor. He is exactly the type of player we need,» said Koubek. «He has proven that he can be an asset. Perhaps not for the full duration, but for a significant part, certainly. We are satisfied with him, which is why he is going.»
Hlozek Joined TSG from Leverkusen
Hlozek, whom the Kraichgauers signed from Leverkusen in 2024, has played 42 international matches for the Czech Republic, scoring five goals. For TSG, he has appeared in 42 competitive matches, scoring eleven goals and providing three assists.
«It will still take some time until he is one hundred percent fit. He will get playing time in the final test this Thursday in New Jersey against Guatemala, which will also help. Additionally, there are still some training sessions in Dallas ahead,» Koubek stated.