Rafael Czichos

• Full name: Rafael Czichos
• Date of birth: 8 February 1989
• Place of birth: Neuss, West Germany
• Nationality: German
• Position: Centre-back (defender)
• Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)

Career summary

• Youth career: Played for local youth clubs including BV Weckhoven and TSV Norf before joining Borussia Mönchengladbach's youth setup.
• Early senior career: Appeared for Borussia Mönchengladbach II and had spells with clubs such as 1. FC Köln II (Cologne II).
• Notable clubs: After time in German lower divisions, Czichos became well known during his spell with Hannover 96 and later with 1. FC Köln (Cologne).
• 1. FC Köln: Played as a central defender for 1. FC Köln (Cologne) in the Bundesliga, contributing with defensive solidity and aerial presence. He featured both in the club's first team and previously with the reserve side (1. FC Köln II) earlier in his career.
• Style of play: Tall, physical centre-back known for marking, tackling and aerial ability. Offers leadership and experience in central defence.

Honours & notes

• Has experience in both Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga competitions.
• Respected as a steady, reliable defender at club level; contributed to team defensive organization rather than high goal totals.

Sources & further reading

• Player profiles on club websites and football databases (e.g., transfermarkt, worldfootball).