Winterthur Striker Outscores All FC Basel Forwards – Mentor & Transfer Details
Andrin Hunziker, the 23-year-old forward currently on loan at Winterthur from FC Basel, is outperforming all of FC Basel’s strikers combined in terms of goal contributions this season. The situation has sparked reflection on a potential return to the club he grew up near, a move ultimately blocked by a contract technicality, and highlighted the mentorship role played by former Basel star Marco Streller in his career.
Hunziker and Streller, both hailing from the Baselbiet region – Therwil and Arlesheim respectively, a mere six kilometers apart – share a deep connection to the club and a similar physical presence as imposing forwards. According to reports, the pair forged a strong bond when Hunziker was loaned to Aarau in 2022, with Streller offering guidance during a pivotal moment in the young player’s development. “Marco gave me valuable tips,” Hunziker said. “He told me not to stress, that sometimes you demand to take a detour to reach your goal. That was pretty cool and gave me courage.”
Despite his young age, Hunziker remains unfazed by the twists and turns of his career path. “As a center forward, age doesn’t play a decisive role. I don’t rely on speed, but on finishing, on my presence in the box. I can still be a decent striker at 30 or 35,” he stated. A potential return to Basel in the winter transfer window was considered, but ultimately failed to materialize due to the absence of a pre-agreed buyback clause in his loan agreement with Winterthur.
While Hunziker acknowledged his affection for FC Basel, he expressed understanding of Winterthur’s reluctance to part with their key player during a relegation battle. “I’m not angry with anyone and I’m more than happy here in Winterthur. It’s a special club with a special atmosphere. Even if I would probably have gotten playing time at FCB in the second half of the season, I have a responsibility to FCW in the relegation battle,” he explained.
Hunziker’s journey has been marked by setbacks, including a torn cruciate ligament in August 2023, an injury he described as “bitter.” Following a loan spell at Karlsruher SC, he joined Winterthur in July 2025, where he has quickly established himself as a key player, scoring nine goals and providing four assists. This performance contrasts sharply with the combined six Super League goals scored by Albian Ajeti, Moritz Broschinski, and Giacomo Koloto, all Basel strikers.
Streller, observing Hunziker’s progress, believes the forward is thriving in his current environment. “Andrin has made great progress. He’s finally injury-free and has a coach, Patrick Rahmen, who fully believes in him and who was a striker himself,” Streller noted. He also emphasized the importance of stability for Hunziker, allowing him to take on a leadership role and secure consistent playing time.
Hunziker’s contract with FC Basel extends until June 2027, and Streller is confident that the striker has the potential to develop into a valuable asset for his boyhood club. “Andrin has gained physical strength, scores goals, holds the ball well, and has established himself as a Super League striker. I believe he can make the step back to FCB. He has huge potential. It’s important that he finishes the season healthy.”
Winterthur will face FC Basel on Sunday, a match Hunziker admits he is looking forward to, despite a frustrating previous encounter where he missed several scoring opportunities. “Because I should have scored three goals in that game,” he said, recalling a match where he briefly celebrated a goal by covering his ears, a gesture he downplayed as simply acknowledging his current club affiliation. The outcome of this match, and Hunziker’s continued performance, will likely fuel further speculation about his long-term future.