Gift Orban is expected to return to Hoffenheim at the end of the season following the conclusion of his loan spell with Hellas Verona, Trybal News reports.
The Nigerian striker moved to Verona last summer on a temporary deal that included an option to make the transfer permanent. Despite a decent return of seven goals and two assists in 28 league appearances for the Yellow and Blues, the Serie A side have decided not to activate that clause.
According to reports from BILD, Verona have opted against keeping the 23 year old, with his recent dip in form playing a part in the decision. Orban has not scored in almost three months, a drought that has coincided with the club’s struggles in the closing stages of the campaign.
Gift Orban remains under contract with Hoffenheim until 2029, having joined the Bundesliga side in January 2025 from Olympique Lyonnais for a fee of around €9 million. However, his time in Germany has so far been limited, with just 13 appearances and two goals before his move to Italy.
His season has also been overshadowed by an off field incident following Verona’s 1 0 defeat to AC Milan. Tensions boiled over outside the stadium after the match, with reports of a confrontation between Orban and a supporter. The situation escalated after the player reportedly declined to sign autographs, leading to an altercation that had to be broken up by bystanders.
Authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, although Orban is said to have apologised at the scene. The episode reflects a difficult period for both the player and the club, who have endured a poor run of results.
With his return to Hoffenheim now confirmed, attention will shift to whether Orban can reset and find his form again as he looks to revive his career in Germany.
