Hoffenheim loses striker Tabakovic – transfer to Salzburg completed

Hoffenheim confirmed on Saturday the departure of Haris Tabakovic: the 32‑year‑old Bosnian forward signed a three‑year deal until 2029 with Austrian powerhouse Red Bull Salzburg. Sports director Marcus Mann described the move as an immediate boost for the Salzburg side. Tabakovic, who was most recently on loan from Borussia Mönchengladbach, will start wearing Salzburg boots right away.

Why the exit matters for Hoffenheim

Tabakovic brought recent experience from the Austrian Bundesliga and Germany's second tier. At Hoffenheim he saw limited game time, but his presence in training was praised by Mann as "someone who helps immediately and knows where the goal is". Losing him forces Hoffenheim to reshuffle its attacking options, especially as the team sits on 61 points in 5th place (18‑7‑9) and trails league leaders Bayern Munich by 28 points.

How does this affect the current season?

With 65 goals scored and 52 conceded (+13 goal difference), Hoffenheim has a solid record, yet the departure of a seasoned forward could dent its scoring rate in the final weeks. The recent form (L‑W‑D‑W‑W) shows the side still collects points, but the midfield pack is closing in. Without Tabakovic, manager Sebastian Hoeneß may need to rely on younger talents like Florian Wirtz or new loanees to maintain offensive firepower.

What does the transfer mean for Tabakovic?

The move brings Tabakovic back to his home league, where he previously played for Austria Lustenau and Austria Wien. He made a brief appearance in the 2022 World Cup round of 16 against the USA (0‑2). The new contract until 2029 offers security and the chance to start regularly in an attacking system. Salzburg hopes he will instantly raise their goal tally and aid the club in European competition.

Outlook: Hoffenheim must look ahead

The club now faces the task of filling the striker gap. With a current league standing of 5th and 61 points, Hoffenheim remains in the hunt for a European spot, but the 28‑point gap to Bayern makes the challenge steep. Upcoming fixtures against FC Cologne and VfB Stuttgart will reveal whether the team can keep its offensive edge without Tabakovic.