The story of Union Berlin has been nothing short of miraculous. The team is currently in contention to qualify for the Champions League for the very first time, having only played the UEFA Cup in the past. More surprising is the fact that they were only promoted to the Bundesliga for the first time in 2019.
Union were relegated consecutively in 2004 and 2005, and were almost nowhere near the top flight. In a day and age where money rules football and owners from oil-money continue to ‘buy success’ at the top of the footballing world, their philosophy represents the exact opposite.
The rise of Union Berlin to Europe is nothing short of crazy
One of the most unique features of the club is their die hard fanbase. Not the kind that the elites in world football have. But fans that actually sacrifice for the club. By 2008, over 2500 fans contributed 140,000 hours of work to renovate their stadium prior to their promotion to the second tier of German football.
After earning promotion to the Bundesliga for the first time four years ago, they qualified for the Europa League last season. And their spell in Europe saw them eliminate Ajax in the Round of 16 before being defeated by Union Saint-Gilloise.
Union Berlin were also mounting a title challenge earlier this season, but were halted in their attempts by a few missed results. However, they still have a chance to qualify for the Champions League, yet another incredible feat.
