Andreas Cornelius is prioritizing a carefully managed return to full fitness with FC Copenhagen (FCK), aiming for long-term availability rather than rushing back too quickly. The striker, who rejoined FCK in 2022 after a successful stint with Trabzonspor, has been hampered by injuries during his third period with the club.
Cornelius emphasized that his limited playing time in recent training matches, including 30 minutes against Hamburger SV, is part of a deliberate plan. The coming weeks will involve a gradual increase in playing time, carefully agreed upon to ensure he is fully fit for the entire season.
With FCK’s Superliga season opener against Viborg and a Champions League qualifier against FC Drita approaching, Cornelius is unlikely to play full time in either match. His focus remains on building endurance and avoiding re-injury, even though he feels capable of playing a full 90 minutes. He believes it’s more beneficial to be available for multiple games in a week than to risk injury in a single match.
FCK’s attacking options have also been bolstered by the arrival of young talent Youssoufa Moukoko from Dortmund and the presence of Algerian international Amin Chiakha. Head coach Jacob Neestrup believes that there will be ample playing time for all three strikers, dismissing the notion of an intense “attacking battle” due to the numerous matches the team will be playing. Neestrup suggests that squad rotation will be key, ensuring that all players get opportunities to contribute throughout the season.