1. FC Union Berlin have completed the loan signing of midfielder Manuel Schmiedebach from Hannover. The player’s contract at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei runs until June 30, 2019.

"I look forward to returning to my home city where it all began for me," said the 29-year-old. "With my experience, I will try to support the team to the best of my abilities and achieve a successful season. I’m coming to Union to achieve something special here and I see that this is possible. When Hannover played against Union in the 2.Bundesliga, I experienced just how much potential 1. FC Union Berlin have and what kind of energy the whole club can develop. I’m up for this."

Schmiedebach, who hails originally from the capital, worked his way through various stopping points in Berlin’s football system as a teenager — he featured for SC Schwarz-Weiß Spandau, SC Staaken 1919 and Nordberliner SC. He then had a spell with Hertha Berlin before moving to the reserves of Hannover in 2008.

For the past decade, Schmiedebach has become a permanent fixture for the Reds. In 2010-11, Hannover celebrated one of their most successful Bundesliga seasons ever, finishing in fourth place. A run to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League followed under the stewardship of Mirko Slomka. Although Hannover were relegated in 2016, Schmiedebach was instrumental in guiding the club from Lower Saxony back to the top division.

Overall, Schmiedebach played 176 Bundesliga matches for Hannover and 24 in European competitions.

'"Manuel Schmiedebach has a wealth of experience at the highest level. He is a special character who has proven in recent years what an important role he can play in a team. We are looking forward to a great footballer arriving, who will start with us from now on," added Oliver Ruhnert, the Director for Professional Football at 1. FC Union Berlin.

The midfielder will wear the shirt number 24 next season.