Colin Kleine-Bekel

Colin Noah Kleine-Bekel (born 24 January 2003) is a German professional footballer who plays as an centre-back for 2. Bundesliga club Holstein Kiel.

Career
Kleine-Bekel was born in Bielefeld. He was an important player and vice-captain of the Borussia Dortmund U19 team that won the Under 19 Bundesliga in the 2021–22 season. He also made eight appearances in the UEFA Youth League.

In summer 2022 Kleine-Bekel left Borussia Dortmund after spending seven years with the club, signing for 2. Bundesliga club Holstein Kiel. At Holstein Kiel, he was assigned to the reserve team for the 2022–23 season during which he was an undisputed starter and helped the side avoid relegation from the Regionalliga Nord. He made his debut for the first team in May 2023, on the last day of the season, coming on as a substitute in the 80th minute of a 5–1 win against Hannover 96.

Following strong performances in pre-season, Kleine-Bekel was promoted to the first team for the 2023–24 season. He made his starting debut in Holstein Kiel's first league match of the season, playing alongside Carl Johansson in a 1–0 win against Eintracht Braunschweig.

Style of play
A left-footed centre-back, Kleine-Bekel has been described as "tactically disciplined" and strong in duels on the ground and in the air. His build-up play is focussed on minimising mistakes.