Unusual transfer turmoil delays Werder defender, sparks Trump talk

Ungewöhnlicher Transfer-Wirbel surrounds Werder as the 25‑year‑old centre‑back Julian Malatini’s move to FC Cincinnati, announced in early September, was delayed by several weeks because of a US work‑permit problem, and raised questions, prompting Werder Trump speculation.

Work‑permit hurdle

Nach weeks of uncertainty, the transfer was announced on 3 September, but Malatini was forced to remain in Bremen to keep fit while officials sorted the paperwork required for entry and employment in the USA. The work‑permit issue kept the defender in Germany for several weeks.

Loan deal and future prospects

Werder and Cincinnati agreed a one‑year Leihe with an option to buy. The deal, confirmed in early September, means Malatini will join the MLS side on a loan, and if he impresses, the club can trigger the purchase clause next summer. The necessary documents were finally signed, allowing him to travel roughly 20 days after the announcement.

The delay’s cause remains unclear, but some observers point to the tightened entry and residence rules for non‑US nationals introduced under US President Donald Trump. Whether those regulations directly affected Malatini’s case has not been proven.

Julian Malatini arrived in January 2024 from Defensa y Justicia for around €2 million. In Bremen he made 34 competitive appearances, scoring two goals and providing one assist, but never secured a permanent place in the starting eleven.

In Cincinnati he now has the chance to prove himself in the MLS. His performances will be watched closely by Werder, and a successful loan could see the Green‑Whites’ former defender finish his spell with a permanent move.