Ritsu Doan looks back on a turbulent debut season at Eintracht Frankfurt. After a promising start under Dino Toppmöller, the offensive player had to take on an unfamiliar role under his successor Albert Riera. It was not pleasant for me and overall not an easy time, the 28-year-old Japanese player still puzzles today. Eintracht Frankfurt finished the 2025 season in 7th place in the Bundesliga with 42 points from 29 games (11W-9D-9L).
What happened in Doan's debut season?
Doan moved from SC Freiburg to Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer of 2025 for around 21 million euros. Under Toppmöller, he scored six of his seven goals, but after his dismissal in January, he had to adjust to a new position under Riera. I honestly don't know what position it was exactly. Number 8? Number 6? Both? I don't know, Doan said in an interview with kicker.
Why is Adi Hütter important for Eintracht Frankfurt?
After Riera's departure, Adi Hütter returned as coach and immediately brought natural authority. You can immediately tell that he is the boss, Doan emphasized. The Austrian has clear ideas that the team follows. The intensity in training is noticeable, which was often missing last season.
What's next for Eintracht Frankfurt?
Eintracht Frankfurt is facing a new season with a lot of potential. The next match is on February 13, 2027, against SC Freiburg. Doan sees the team on the right path and hopes for a successful future under Hütter.
