Baris Atik, the 31‑year‑old left winger of 1. FC Magdeburg, announced in the current training camp that he wants to drive the team into the promotion race. The confident leader stresses that he will take the reins from the start to make the difference.

What does Atik say about his role?

Atik claims he already belongs to the best players in the 2. Bundesliga and wants to prove it with his football intelligence. He talks about reading the game, creating order and steering the squad in the right direction. "That's why I take the reins from day one and give clear instructions," he said after a session in the Upper Palatinate.

Why does this matter for 1. FC Magdeburg?

After a disastrous start last season, the club fought for survival until the final matchday. The successful 2024/25 campaign even saw the team dreaming of promotion near the end. Today, 1. FC Magdeburg sits 14th in the 2. Bundesliga with 39 points, 12 wins, 3 draws and 19 losses, the latest result being a 0‑1 defeat to 1. FC Kaiserslautern on 17 May 2026. A goal tally of 52 scored and 58 conceded shows defensive work is still needed.

What are the team's goals for the new season?

Atik wants to tighten up defensive flaws and lock in the playing mechanisms. He expects more players to join the squad and be integrated. "We have a good team, but a couple of signings will make us even stronger," he explained. The next match is again against Eintracht Braunschweig – a fixture that ended in a loss last year but now offers a chance to reverse that result.

How does the current form look?

The last five games present a mixed picture: after two defeats, three wins followed (LLWWW, most recent a win). This upward trend gives Atik confidence that the side can collect the needed points. He stresses that the preparation period must be used to sharpen routines and keep the squad mentally resilient.

Baris Atik remains a key anchor for 1. FC Magdeburg. His experience and claim to be among the best could be the difference the club urgently needs this season.