Koki Machida
TSG
CB
Ball-Playing Centre Back
Aug 25, 1997 (29)
Left
6'3"
185 lb
HoffenheimStill working on fitness
Machida is still lacking fitness to begin the season, according to manager Christian Ilzer. "Koki Machida still lacks match fitness."
Analysis: Machida suffered a torn ACL in the season opener last season and did not recover in time to make the season opener this campaign, with the defender still not fit for a full role. That said, he could be in time for some minutes from the bench, although nothing is confirmed at the moment. He started in the season opener last season before the injury, so he hopes to earn that role back.
Back fit to play
Machida (groin) is on the bench for Saturday's friendly against Tottenham, according to the club.
Analysis: Machida had been dealing with osteitis pubis that developed during his ACL rehabilitation, a complication coach Christian Ilzer had described as unpredictable in its development. His inclusion on the matchday squad now marks an encouraging step forward, though his overall recovery timeline remains something to monitor as he continues working back toward full fitness.
Managing pubic bone issue
Machida has developed osteitis pubis during his ACL rehabilitation, according to coach Christian Ilzer, per Kicker. "He has developed pubic bone inflammation during his rehabilitation. And as everyone familiar with this issue knows, it's always an unpredictable period of development, so it's difficult to give a precise prognosis"
Analysis: Machida had been targeting a return from his ACL injury, but this new complication adds further uncertainty to his recovery timeline. No specific date for his return has been set given the unpredictable nature of the condition. Further clarity on his status is expected to come from the club as his rehabilitation progresses.
Deemed fit
Machida (knee) is an option for play for the end of the season, according to manager Christian Ilzer. "Koki has taken part in almost all training sessions and has made further progress. So, we have a lot of players to choose from."
Analysis: Machida was nearing a return last week, but is now officially fit, as he has been cleared of his knee injury after training all week. After a long injury-absence dating back to the second match of the season, this is good news for the defender, as he will look to find a few minutes before the close of the season. However, they may still be cautious despite his starting role to begin the campaign.
Training but still out
Machida (knee) is back in training but won't be an option for Saturday's game against Stuttgart, according to manager Christian Ilzer. "[Koki] Machida is not an option yet, but he was able to participate in parts of team training."
Analysis: Machida continues to clear hurdles on his proposed return to action before the end of the 2025/26 season, but since he won't play this weekend, he'll only have two more chances to feature before the end of the Bundesliga campaign. If healthy, Machida should represent Japan in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Machida's next chance to play will come against Werder Bremen on Saturday, May 9.
Completes partial training
Machida (knee) took part in some training work with the team for the first time since starting his recovery in August, the team reported Tuesday.
Analysis: Machida is making progress toward his return from an ACL tear that sidelined practically for the entire 2025/26 season. However, he may be ready to play at some point before the World Cup, likely getting minutes as a substitute before being able to challenge Ozan Kabak and Albian Hajdari at center-back.
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