Berlin-born Ken Reichel has returned to his home city, signing a two-year-deal with 1. FC Union Berlin. The left-back has agreed a two-year-deal at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei which is effective if Union play in either the 2.Bundesliga or Bundesliga.

"I have played almost exclusively for Eintracht Braunschweig and had many emotional years there," the defender said. "But now it's time to take a new path and I'm really looking forward to my new job with Eisern Union in my hometown Berlin. In recent years, I have played many times as an away player at the Alte Försterei, so it is all the better to have the home support behind you in this backdrop."

Reichel's football career started at TSV Rudow at the age of five. An experienced, versatile full-back, Reichel went on to Tasmania Gropiusstadt before signing for Hamburg's second team in 2005. His career would take him to Eintracht Braunschweig, where he became a stalwart for the club. Reichel helped the Lions secure promotion to the 2.Bundesliga in 2011 and then to the Bundesliga, the following year. 

Overall, the 31-year-old recorded 183 2.Bundesliga appearances at the Eintracht-Stadion with a further 27 in the Bundesliga. He scored 20 goals in the second tier — including the winner against Union last season — and set up another 21 for his team-mates.

"In the shape of Ken Reichel, we have an experienced player who has known the 2.Bundesliga for many years and has consistently shown his ability. He was a key player in Braunschweig and will also go on to play an important role for us this season," commented Oliver Ruhnert, the Managing Director for Professional Football at 1. FC Union Berlin.

The 31-year-old will wear the number 14 shirt next season.