Ragnar Ache was not substituted against Union Berlin due to performance, but tactics â?? FC Koln coach Lukas Kwasniok

Ragnar Ache stood at the center of discussion after FC Koln’s loss to Union Berlin, not for a missed chance but for a tactical call that reshaped the contest.

The German-Ghanaian striker was withdrawn in the 58th minute, making way for Marius Bülter, a decision head coach Lukas Kwasniok stressed was purely strategic.

Kwasniok explained that Ache had fulfilled his role well before the break, with Köln finding him effectively between the lines. The shift came after problems developed on the left side, where balance and support were lacking. To stabilize that area and help Jakub Kaminski operate with more freedom, the staff chose Bülter, described by the coach as the Pole’s "ideal partner", while keeping the team’s physical presence intact.

The coach also dismissed suggestions that Ache’s reaction was personal frustration. According to him, the striker’s disappointment reflected the result rather than the substitution itself. He pointed to Jan Thielmann’s gesture of comfort on the touchline as evidence of growing unity within the squad and a sign of leadership maturing.

Ache has played 14 games, scored one goal, and assisted three in the Bundesliga this season.

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