Goalkeeper Lina Altenburg is moving up to the Eintracht Women first-team squad for the 2024/25 season. The 19-year-old, who currently keeps goal for the U20 side in Women’s Bundesliga 2, has been given a contract for the Bundesliga team until summer 2026.
The young shot-stopper became a European champion with the German U17 team in 2022, as well as finishing fourth at the World Cup in India. She’s made one appearance for the U19 national team so far.
“Learn as much as possible from the others”
“It’s very special for me to be given the chance to take the next step here at Eintracht,” said Altenburg. “I’m looking forward to the challenge. Firstly I want to settle well in the team in the new season, and pick up and learn as much as possible from the others. At the same time, I want to continue gaining match practice with the U20s. For us young players, it’s a great chance to train at such a high level while being able to get playing time in the second division.”
Niko Arnautis, head coach and sporting director of Eintracht Women, explained: “It’s very nice that we’re gaining a player from the academy in our Bundesliga squad in Lina. We’re pleased when players with the Eintracht DNA also want to keep growing here at the club. She has massive potential. Now we want to give her the opportunity to train at Bundesliga level every day so that she gets used to the intensity and tempo of the game. She’ll still be able to gain match practice with the U20s in order to take the next steps.”
