Stefan Ortega is weighing up a return to German football following the expiry of his Nottingham Forest contract, with Hannover 96 emerging as a potential destination for the experienced goalkeeper.
According to Kicker, the 2. Bundesliga side have already made contact with the 33-year-old as they search for a new first-choice goalkeeper. The report indicates Ortega is now carefully considering his next move after departing the Premier League club, where his brief tenure has come to a natural conclusion.
Extensive German Experience
Ortega brings substantial familiarity with Germany’s domestic leagues. Across his career in the country, he accumulated 67 appearances in the Bundesliga and a further 170 outings in the 2. Bundesliga, demonstrating his durability and consistency over multiple campaigns.
His most recent German club was Arminia Bielefeld, whom he left in 2022 to join Manchester City. During his two-year spell at the Etihad Stadium, Ortega served as backup to Ederson, adding Premier League and Champions League experience to his repertoire. He featured in domestic cup competitions and occasional league fixtures, maintaining match sharpness while working under Pep Guardiola before seeking a move to Nottingham Forest.
Hannover’s Goalkeeping Requirements
Hannover 96 are actively seeking to resolve their goalkeeping situation ahead of the new season, and Ortega represents an experienced option capable of stepping straight into the starting role. His track record in the 2. Bundesliga suggests he could provide the stability the club require between the posts.
The move would represent a homecoming of sorts for the German stopper, who previously built his reputation in the same division. With 170 second-tier appearances already to his name, he possesses the specific experience Hannover are seeking as they aim to strengthen their squad.
With the transfer window progressing, Ortega faces a decision on whether to return to the division where he previously established himself as a reliable presence. The approach from Hannover offers a clear pathway to regular first-team football, something that proved elusive during his recent brief stint in English football.
The goalkeeper’s next choice will determine whether he adds to his considerable tally of appearances in German football or explores alternative opportunities elsewhere.