Michael Gregoritsch Sets Record as Augsburg's All-Time Bundesliga Scorer

Michael Gregoritsch's return to FC Augsburg has been marked by a remarkable achievement, as he has now become the club's all-time leading goalscorer in the Bundesliga. This milestone was reached during a thrilling 2-2 draw against Bayer Leverkusen, where the Austrian striker scored twice in the second half, surpassing the previous record held by Alfred Finnbogason.

Entering the 2026/27 season, Gregoritsch had 35 Bundesliga goals for Augsburg, trailing Finnbogason by two. After netting a goal against Schalke in the season opener, he leveled the score with Finnbogason at 37 goals. Just five minutes later, he scored again with a well-placed header, bringing his tally to 38 and securing his place in the club's history.

The journey to this record has been anything but straightforward. Just over a year ago, Gregoritsch left SC Freiburg and German football for a stint at Brøndby, seemingly closing the chapter on his Bundesliga career. However, by January, he was eager to return, and Augsburg provided the opportunity to reunite with coach Manuel Baum, under whom he had previously thrived.

Upon his return on loan from Brøndby, Gregoritsch expressed his emotional connection to Augsburg and his eagerness to contribute. Initially, he was brought in to help the team distance itself from relegation, providing leadership and experience in a challenging situation. His role was not guaranteed, especially with the arrival of young striker Rodrigo Ribeiro, who was also vying for playing time.

Despite not always being the first choice, Gregoritsch's importance to the team was evident. His leadership qualities shone through when he notably corrected a referee's decision during a relegation match against Hamburg, showcasing his commitment to fair play and team spirit. As the season progressed, he became a crucial player for Augsburg, contributing not just goals but also experience and stability.

Augsburg's decision to retain both Gregoritsch and Ribeiro over the summer reflects their strategic approach to squad depth. While Ribeiro offers youthful energy and mobility, Gregoritsch remains the seasoned target man, adept at holding off defenders and facilitating attacks. This dynamic has allowed Augsburg to adapt their style of play effectively.

Gregoritsch's brace against Leverkusen not only solidified his record but also helped Augsburg maintain their best start in Bundesliga history. After trailing at halftime, he equalized shortly after the break, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure. The match highlighted Augsburg's resilience, as they have shown a knack for coming back from difficult positions.

Let's Call It What It Is

This record is particularly meaningful for Gregoritsch, who has had a long and storied relationship with Augsburg. He has promised to celebrate this achievement with his teammates, emphasizing the bond he shares with the club. "It means quite a lot to me," he remarked, reflecting on his journey and the significance of becoming the club's leading scorer. "I never thought I would have played so long in the Bundesliga for a top-flight club. I’ve experienced so many positive things here."

As Augsburg looks to build on this success, Gregoritsch believes the team's unity and determination will be key. He noted the strong camaraderie within the squad and expressed hope for continued success as they prepare for their next match before the international break. With his record-setting performance, Gregoritsch has not only etched his name in Augsburg's history but has also reinvigorated the team's ambitions for the season ahead.