The SG Flensburg-Handewitt has secured two of the most promising young talents in European handball, announcing the signing of Portuguese siblings Francisco and Martim Costa, according to a club press release. The Bundesliga side, known for developing elite players, added the brothers to bolster its attack as the 2024-25 season approaches.
The Costa Brothers: A Dual Threat
Francisco Costa, 21, and Martim Costa, 19, have drawn attention for their complementary skill sets. Francisco, a left-wing player, averages 4.2 goals per game in the Portuguese Handball League, while Martim, a right-back, excels in defensive transitions. Both were part of Portugal’s U21 national team that finished fourth in the 2023 EHF European Championship.
The brothers’ father, José Costa, a former handball coach in Lisbon, confirmed their move to Flensburg. “This opportunity allows them to grow in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues,” he said. “The club’s reputation for nurturing talent was a key factor.”
Flensburg’s Strategic Move
SG Flensburg-Handewitt, which finished third in the Bundesliga last season, has prioritized youth development under coach Christian Hildmann. The club’s sporting director, Thomas Röhl, emphasized the brothers’ potential: “Francisco and Martim bring energy, technical precision, and the ambition to compete at the highest level.”
The signing aligns with Flensburg’s strategy to blend experienced veterans with emerging stars. Last summer, the club acquired 23-year-old Danish goalkeeper Andreas Knudsen, signaling a focus on long-term competitiveness.
Portugal’s Rising Handball Talent
Portugal has seen a surge in handball popularity, with the men’s national team reaching the 2024 Olympics for the first time. The Costa brothers’ move reflects the country’s growing influence in the sport. Francisco, who played for SL Benfica, and Martim, who came through the youth academy of CD Santa Clara, were both scouted by Bundesliga clubs during the 2023-24 season.
“This is a milestone for Portuguese handball,” said António Lopes, a sports analyst with RTP, Portugal’s public broadcaster. “Having players in the Bundesliga raises the profile of the domestic league and inspires younger athletes.”
What This Means for the Bundesliga
The Costa brothers’ arrival increases competition within Flensburg’s squad, particularly in the forward line. Last season, the club relied on veteran attackers like Mads Rasmussen and Luka Gavrančić, who combined for 287 goals. Adding the Costa brothers could allow the team to experiment with new formations.
Analysts note the Bundesliga’s increasing globalization. In 2023, 28% of players were foreign-born, up from 19% in 2019. The Costa brothers join a list of international stars including French winger Rémy Martin and Serbian goalkeeper Nikola Karabatić.
Next Steps for the Costa Brothers
The brothers are expected to join Flensburg’s pre-season training in late June. Their integration will be critical, as the Bundesliga’s regular season begins on September 13. Flensburg’s first match of the year is against THW Kiel, a traditional powerhouse that finished second in 2023-24.
Francisco and Martim will also compete in the 2024 EHF Champions League qualifiers, where Flensburg faces Danish club GOG Håndbold. The club’s success in these tournaments could determine its European aspirations.
How to Follow the Story
Updates on the Costa brothers’ progress will be posted on SG Flensburg-Handewitt’s official website and social media channels. For Bundesliga standings and match schedules, visit the league’s website. International fans can track the brothers’ performances via the EHF’s live stats platform.
The Costa brothers’ signing underscores the Bundesliga’s role as a talent incubator. As Flensburg aims to challenge for the title, the brothers’ development will be a key storyline in the coming season. Fans worldwide will be watching to see if this Portuguese duo can become the next Bundesliga stars.
