FC Koln have signed central defender Rav van den Berg from Middlesbrough as star takes “next big step” in his career.

Rav van den Berg reveals why he left Middlesbrough for FC Koln after £11.2m move announced

FC Koln have signed central defender Rav van den Berg from Middlesbrough as star takes “next big step” in his career.

Middlesbrough have endured a polarising start to the 2025/26 season under summer appointment Rob Edwards.

In the Championship opening weekend clash, Middlesbrough beat Swansea City 1-0 in a solid first outing for Edwards’ new-look Boro side.

On Tuesday evening, Boro were beaten 4-0 in an embarrassing Carabao Cup loss to Northampton Town.

Away from the field, Edwards has been a dealt transfer blow with the exit of Rav van den Berg, and the defender has now revealed why he has joined German giants FC Koln.

Rav van den Berg reveals why he joined FC Koln from Middlesbrough

Van den Berg has been destined to leave Middlesbrough throughout the summer transfer window.

EFL Analysis revealed recently that Van den Berg would leave Middlesbrough, given the interest in his services from European giants Feyenoord and FC Koln.

Van den Berg missed Middlesbrough vs Swansea amid the uncertainty over his future, with new summer signing Alfie Jones stepping up in his absence to secure a clean sheet.

Earlier this week, reports emerged that Middlesbrough agreed a deal with FC Koln for van den Berg, and now the Dutchman’s departure has been announced.

Now, the 21-year-old defender has shared his first words after signing for the German top flight side.

Van den Berg told FC Koln’s website: “I am really looking forward to taking the next big step in my career – and that is for 1. FC Köln.

Statistic	Rav van den Berg for Middlesbrough
Games played	66
Goals + Assists	1

“Thomas Kessler played a big role in my decision to join FC. From the very start, he gave me the feeling that the club absolutely wants to have me play here.

“I believe that the FC family is an environment that fits me well. It might sound somewhat cliché, but I need that, and I can’t wait to play in front of the FC fans for the first time and give everything for them.”

Middlesbrough fans will be split over Rav van den Berg exit for FC Koln

Van den Berg endured a turbulent time at the Riverside Stadium since arriving from PEC Zwolle.

The Dutch defender won both the Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards during his debut season in 2023/24, which cemented him as one of the best young central defenders in English football.

Unfortunately, Van den Berg was limited to just 27 appearances last season due to injury issues, and now Middlesbrough have banked a substantial profit on the defender.