'Bit by bit' - Hoffenheim coach indicates winter signing Gift Orban will soon be a regular starter

Hoffenheim head coach Christian Ilzer has indicated that 2023 Super Eagles invitee Gift Orban, the club's January signing from Olympique Lyon, will soon be a regular starter. 

Despite starting only one competitive match since his arrival, Orban has been making a strong impression, and Ilzer believes he is on the cusp of becoming a regular starter.

Orban's integration into the team has been a gradual process, with Ilzer opting to ease him into the lineup with short appearances off the bench. 

However, the 9 million euros signing has been making the most of his limited opportunities, scoring a goal in each of Hoffenheim's last two Bundesliga games after coming on as a substitute.

Ilzer has been impressed with Orban's progress, citing a clear upward trend in his performances. 

The coach attributes Orban's slow start to the integration process, emphasizing the importance of allowing him time to adjust to the team's dynamics and processes.

As a striker, Orban's role requires a high level of understanding with his teammates, and Ilzer has been patient in giving him the time he needs to settle in.

"We're working on his integration bit by bit, but we've already made a lot of progress," Ilzer said, highlighting Orban's growing influence on the team as quoted by Liga Insider. 

With Orban's confidence and understanding of the team's system growing with each passing game, Ilzer believes he is on the verge of cementing a place in the starting lineup.

As Hoffenheim prepare to face Union Berlin on Saturday, Ilzer will have some decisions to make regarding his starting lineup. Orban is likely to be in contention for a starting spot, along with Erencan Yardımcı and Max Moerstedt.

Regardless of who gets the nod, Ilzer is confident that Orban will play a significant role in Hoffenheim's future success.

"He can already do it, but he will be able to help us a lot more in the future," Ilzer said, praising Orban's potential. 

With Orban's stock on the rise, Hoffenheim fans will be eagerly awaiting his next appearance, hoping to see him build on his promising start.

Ejim Kaycee

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