Two Sea Devils against old love in Madrid

The Hamburg Sea Devils will kick off the new European League of Football season on May 17th with an away game in the Spanish capital. Their opponents on the first match day are the Madrid Bravos — a very special encounter for two Sea Devils players. 

Both Offensive Guard Robin Fensch and Wide Receiver Jean-Claude Madin Cerezo wore the Bravos' jersey last season and are returning to Hamburg for the 2025 season.

"We're looking forward to the start of the season in Madrid. It's an exciting challenge to start with an away game - and at the same time an emotional return for two of our guys," says Mark Weitz, General Manager of the Hamburg Sea Devils. "Robin and Jean-Claude are not only a sporting asset, but also strong characters for our team structure."

Start of a new era for the Hamburg Sea Devils

The game also marks the beginning of a new era for the Sea Devils: The collaboration with previous Head Coach Shuan Fatah was terminated at the beginning of the week. With immediate effect, Lee Rowland, previously the team's Offensive Coordinator, will take over the role of Head Coach. 

"The team is ready — despite the recent developments. Players and coaches are fully focused on football and our upcoming opponent, Madrid. We know we're a good football team, and we're ready to show that to our fans and the rest of the league on Saturday," said Lee Rowland, the Sea Devils' new Head Coach.

Sea Devils star: "Hamburg is my football home"

For Robin Fensch, the return to Hamburg and the direct duel with his former team is a highlight at the start: "It feels like coming home — and at the same time like an exciting new start. I've taken a lot from my time in Madrid, but Hamburg is my football home." Kickoff for the match is on Saturday, May 17th at 8:00 p.m. at the Estadio de Vallehermoso in Madrid.

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