An end-of-days atmosphere is already surrounding Werder Bremen after just the first Bundesliga matchday. While those in charge and the players alike are trying to project optimism, fears are growing in the club's environment given the lack of quality in play and another botched transfer window, with concerns mounting that the club could be relegated for a second time in just a few years. Former Werder Bremen professional Mario Basler is also worried about the green and whites.

The 57-year-old commented on Bremen's poor start to the new Bundesliga season in his podcast, stating that it is not good, it is not good.

In the 1-4 defeat in Freiburg, manager Daniel Thioune's side presented itself in alarming condition. Going forward, almost nothing worked, and defensively, all defenses collapsed after falling behind.

Returning striker Niclas Füllkrug had a completely wasted day, remaining totally ineffective in attack and additionally initiating a goal conceded through a careless loss of possession. Basler concluded that the savior had not delivered.

The 1996 European champion is aware of Füllkrug's importance to the club, but much has changed at Werder since his departure to Borussia Dortmund in summer 2023. It appears the striker must first find his place in the team again.

Basler emphasized that Werder Bremen needs Füllkrug and that he must score goals. However, he added that should the veteran not perform, the club faces a major problem.

Defeats, misfortune and mishaps at Werder Bremen

On matchday 2, Werder hosts Champions League participant RB Leipzig in their first home match of the season. Following the weak performance in Freiburg and a chaotic deadline day week, there is currently little reason to expect the home side to pick up points.

The serious injury to Jens Stage has dealt another blow to the already fragile structure at Werder, and the last-minute departure of Samuel Mbangula was not compensated for in terms of personnel. It is no wonder, then, that concerns are growing not just for Basler.