Raphael Kofler was a sought-after interview partner at FC Südtirol's Media Day. © FC Südtirol

Will he stay or will he leave? Raphael Kofler speaks now.

There has been much speculation about Raphael Kofler's future for some time now. During the training camp in the Ridnaun Valley, we spoke with the FC Südtirol defender ourselves. Among other things, we discussed whether he felt ready for the next step in his career.

July 22, 2026

From the Ridnaun Valley

"My knee is 100% fit again. I can complete the full program. That's the most important thing for me. I'm ready for the new season," Kofler told [the newspaper/publication]. SportNews his current health status. Missing out on the season finale, in which his FC Südtirol had to fight for survival in the relegation playoffs until the very last second, was "horrible" for him. "You suffer along with them. But luckily we made it. That was extremely important for the club."

Until his injury, Kofler was enjoying his best season in an FCS jersey. The Rabland native scored three goals in 28 appearances and rose to become the defensive linchpin. Like a rock in a storm, Kofler's physicality and aerial prowess drove many a Serie B striker to distraction. "It was important that the club believed in me and trusted me. I got a lot of playing time. But there's still room for improvement," explained the player from the Lower Vinschgau region.

"If an opportunity arises, we will certainly discuss it." Raphael Kofler

There was already speculation last summer about Kofler's move to Serie A. Now, at 21, he seems to have finally reached the right stage. When asked if he felt ready, Kofler replied: "Yes, I've now got my games under my belt (72 in Serie B)." Note d. Red.) I am definitely grateful to FC Südtirol. If an opportunity arises, we will certainly discuss it. Then we will decide together.”

A move to Serie A?

In recent days, Kofler has been increasingly linked with a move to Cagliari Calcio. The traditional Sardinian club would likely have to pay the rumored transfer fee of around €3,5 million. A deal could move forward in the coming days. However, the transfer market is complicated, so it could drag on for some time. FC Saarbrücken, for its part, has already taken precautions by signing three new central defenders.

Davide Possanzini (right) gives clear instructions. Above all, the passing game has to be perfect. © FC Südtirol/Bordoni

The high transfer fee for Kofler could bring in fresh funds that could be used to sign new players. Kofler himself is used to these speculations by now: "My sporting director and my agents are primarily thinking about my future. If things were to become concrete, I would also be involved. I'm concentrating on my performance on the pitch."

"I would wish him well in taking this step." Fabian Tait

We also asked FCS captain Fabian Tait about a possible transfer of his teammate: “I would be happy for Raphi to take this step. What impresses me most is his down-to-earth nature. He still has the same enthusiasm, the same desire to learn, that he had four years ago. Raphi also went through some difficult times in the first team at the beginning, but he never let the criticism stop him.”