Heidenheim loans Rothweiler to Hessen Kassel – Young midfielder heads out

Heidenheim has loaned 20‑year‑old midfielder Nick Rothweiler to Regionalliga side Hessen Kassel for the upcoming season. The move was confirmed on July 5 2026 by sporting director Tobias Damm and is intended to give the young talent regular minutes.

Why is Heidenheim sending Rothweiler out?

Heidenheim is currently battling to stay up – sitting 17th in the Bundesliga with 26 points from 34 games (form: L W D W L). The squad is thin, especially in central midfield where injuries have hit hard. By loaning Rothweiler he can start week‑in, week‑out, while Heidenheim looks for reinforcements in the winter window to narrow the –31 goal difference.

What does Tobias Damm say about the player?

Tobias Damm, sporting director of Hessen Kassel, praised the Heidenheim youngster: “Nick is a very ambitious player who has set high goals for himself. That fits well with our profile of developing a team of top‑trained, performance‑hungry players that excites the fans with attractive football.” The quote shows Rothweiler is seen as a project, not just a squad filler.

How does the loan fit both clubs’ season plans?

For Hessen Kassel the signing adds quality to the midfield. The club competes in the Regionalliga Südwest and aims for a top‑half finish. Rothweiler’s 2. Bundesliga experience should stabilise the side. Heidenheim, meanwhile, can ease its wage bill and retains the option to recall the player in January if defensive issues persist.

What does this mean for Heidenheim’s relegation fight?

Heidenheim sits 63 points behind leaders Bayern München, has scored 41 goals and conceded 72 this season. Losing Rothweiler reduces depth, but remaining midfielders like Marius Kobbe and Jan‑Niklas Stöckel will see increased responsibility. The club hopes the existing squad can fill the gap while the defence continues to seek solidity.

The loan is a textbook case of Bundesliga clubs sending promising youngsters to lower‑division teams for game time. For Rothweiler it’s a chance to prove himself and return to Heidenheim ready to compete for a regular spot.