1. FC Köln Haberleri

Steffen Baumgart made two changes to the side that started against Werder Bremen last weekend. Rasmus Carstensen and Steffen Tigges replaced Benno Schmitz and Luca Waldschmidt.

Dino Toppmöller opted for two alterations after Eintracht Frankfurt successfully navigated their way into the group stages of the UEFA Europa Conference League. Hugo Larsson and Philipp Max came into the line-up in place of Kristijan Jakic and Paxten Aaronson.

Kristian Pedersen said: “The chance to play in the Championship again was something that I didn’t want to pass up on. I enjoyed the most successful time in my career while playing in England. I want to build on that now with the move to Swansea City. I am very thankful for the past year at FC and Köln will always be a positive memory for me. I wish my team-mates and the club all the best for the season.”

Dominique Heintz said: “I am really pleased to be back at FC. Despite leaving, the club always remained something special to me, because I have a lot of good memories from my time at FC. My family and myself always felt at home here. As the opportunity arose to play for FC again, it was immediately clear, that I wanted to do just that and help the team to play a successful season.”

Faride Alidou said: “FC showed me an honest perspective in our talks and explained what I need to work on to become a Bundesliga player. The fact that the club shows faith in young players was clear to see in the past two seasons. It was important for me to have a good feeling and, at the same time, it is huge motivation to player here and help FC to have a good Bundesliga season.”

Edin Terzic named the same starting side that were victorious in the cup against TSV Schott Mainz last weekend.

Nikola Soldo said: “After pre-season, it was clear that I wouldn’t get the game time that I need to develop as a young player in order to make the next step in professional football. At FCK, I will give my all and work hard to play and support the club and their goal of establishing themselves in the 2. Bundesliga.”

Steffen Baumgart’s side thought they had taken the lead after 20 minutes only to see Davie Selke’s side-footed finish ruled out for offside. Dejan Ljubicic and Leart Pacarada both had to be brought off after picking up knocks following two hefty challenges from Nantes, in what were the main talking points at the break.

Rasmus Carstensen said: “I decided to join Köln because I saw it as a big chance to play for a huge, traditional club. I am very thankful for that. Now I want to integrate myself into the team and show what I can do on the pitch. I obviously want to play to be able to show the fans that I have strengthened the team.”

Philipp Pentke said: “I am really happy to have signed for a club so big as 1. FC Köln and to be part of the FC family in the coming season. I want to help out as best I can and ensure that the team has a successful season.”