1. FC Union Berlin and Christoph Schösswendter have parted ways, ending an 18-month association between the two at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei.

"Although I imagined my sporting situation to be different, I had a great time in Berlin and at Union. I identified with the club right from the start and felt very comfortable, with the family environment and our incredible fans who have played a big part in it. But now for me personally it's about going a new way again. I want to be on the pitch again regularly and I'm in promising negotiations with a new club. I wish the team, the staff and all fans continued success and all the best for the second half of the season, which I will of course follow with excitement," said the Austrian.

"Christoph is a great character who has always behaved flawlessly. Even though he didn't play regularly, he always supported the team and worked flawlessly in training. That's why we've now complied with his wish to leave the club in winter. We wish Christoph every success," said Oliver Ruhnert, the club's sporting director.

Schösswendter's contract at Union ran until June 2019 but has ended with immediate effect.