Sporting Director Thomas Kessler shared his satisfaction with the signing:
“We’re delighted to have secured Ron for FC. From our very first conversations, everything was open and positive. It quickly became clear that he was eager to take on this challenge and bring his experience and qualities to the team. His leadership, both on and off the field, and his readiness to take responsibility were key factors in our decision. He was a top priority in our squad planning and will be an important piece in building a successful season.”
Ron-Robert Zieler, who originally came through FC’s youth academy between 1999 and 2005 before moving to Manchester United, rejoined FC on loan during the 2020–21 season. Now, at 36 years old, he returns to the club permanently.
Zieler reflected on the move:
“FC is where it all started for me—I spent six years in the academy, and it shaped my career. This is home. I hadn’t really considered leaving Hannover until I spoke with Thomas Kessler. Over the years, Hannover has also felt like home to me, so I had honest conversations with both clubs about the move. From the beginning, FC showed great appreciation for me and offered a clear perspective for life after my playing days, which played a big part in my decision. That’s why I chose to return to my home club, where I’ll give everything for at least the next two years to help the team succeed.”
Born on February 12, 1989, in Köln, Zieler left FC for England in 2005 and spent five years with Manchester United, playing 19 reserve games and making two appearances on loan at Northampton Town. In 2010, he moved back to Germany with Hannover 96, where he became the first-choice goalkeeper, playing 185 Bundesliga matches and 25 European games, ultimately earning a spot in Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad. He later had stints at Leicester City (9 Premier League appearances) and VfB Stuttgart (68 Bundesliga games), before returning to Hannover in 2019. Since then, he’s made 158 appearances for the club.
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