Hamburger SV head coach Merlin Polzin has voiced his support and satisfaction at the return of Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer, after the Ghanaian forward’s proposed transfer to French club OGC Nice fell through due to medical concerns.

The 23-year-old striker had been set to join the Ligue 1 side, with a deal reportedly agreed between both clubs. However, the transfer was unexpectedly canceled following routine medical examinations, with Nice citing fitness issues — a development that left HSV’s management baffled.

"In the three years he played for HSV, he had few days off or missed any matches," Polzin said, clearly puzzled by the French club’s assessment.

While the collapse of the move was a disappointment for Königsdörffer and his family, Polzin emphasized the club’s continued belief in the player, praising his professionalism and character throughout the ordeal.

“Ransford and his family had imagined it differently, otherwise they wouldn’t have left. I feel sorry for him. HSV wanted to give him the opportunity to change when he approached us with his desire to move — but that fell through,” Polzin explained.

Despite the emotional setback, Königsdörffer has returned to full training and will travel with the squad to Mallorca for pre-season preparations. The striker, who scored 14 goals in 30 appearances last season, was instrumental in HSV’s promotion to the Bundesliga — their first return to the top flight in nine years.

“I’m happy to have Ransford back. He takes life as it comes. In the pressure situations we had at the end of last season, he performed incredibly well. Because he doesn’t overthink things, he’s able to stay calm under pressure,” the HSV coach noted.

Polzin also shed light on his close personal bond with Königsdörffer, revealing that the player’s attitude since returning has only strengthened their relationship.

“The last few days have shown again how close our relationship is, even as we were preparing for a potential farewell. That meant a lot to me,” he said.

With the Bundesliga season fast approaching, Polzin sees Königsdörffer’s return as a significant boost to HSV’s campaign, reaffirming that the club retains full confidence in the forward’s ability to thrive at the highest level.