Augsburg's left‑back reshuffle: Giannoulis out, Behrens in

Augsburg have cleared a left‑back vacancy after Dimitrios Giannoulis returned to Greek side PAOK, prompting the club to sign rising German Hennes Behrens. The 21‑year‑old arrives for about €3.5 million and is set to start immediately in the Bundesliga under head coach Manuel Baum.

The Bundesliga side officially sold Giannoulis in an unusual €4.25 million deal to Greek club PAOK after the international pushed for a return to his homeland. The transfer cleared the left‑back position, giving Augsburg freedom to reshuffle its defensive line.

Augsburg secured Behrens from Hoffenheim for approximately €3.5 million earlier this summer. The 21‑year‑old German is poised to fill the gap left by Giannoulis.

During the second half of last season he was on loan at Heidenheim, where he logged 16 Bundesliga appearances, contributing one goal and two assists.

Head coach Manuel Baum already intends to deploy Behrens as his first‑choice left wing‑back in a 3‑4‑2‑1 formation, projecting the youngster alongside Robin Fellhauer on the opposite flank.

Behrens opened his Augsburg account with a goal in the Wednesday 15‑0 friendly win over SC Schwaz. Baum praised his athleticism and personality, believing his runs down the left touchline will energise the WWK‑Arena crowd.

Han‑Noah Massengo, who faced Behrens at Heidenheim, called him “very good” and said he hopes to see more of him this season. Behrens himself said the human side and values at Augsburg suit him, adding that the club is the logical next step and his clear objective is to become a regular Bundesliga starter.

Augsburg may still consider adding another option on the left, with Fellhauer capable of covering if required. For now, Giannoulis’ departure has cleared a direct path for Behrens to establish himself as Baum’s new first‑choice wing‑back.