BERLIN (AP) – National goalkeeper Mathias Niederberger is leaving German ice hockey champion Eisberen Berlin and will play for future defeated finalists EHC Red Bull Munich. Polar Bears announced on Monday that Niederberger decided against extending the contract. The 29-year-old moved to the capital from Düsseldorfer EG two years ago. Notably in the deciding fourth of the series final against Munich, he excelled in the Berliners’ 5–0 victory and was instrumental in the successful defense of the title.

“It was a special time in the capital,” Niederberger said in a statement to Berliners. “Red Bull Munich have been one of the best teams in Europe over the years and are working with a sustainable and long-term strategy,” the son of former national defender Andreas Niederberger explained in the announcement of his new club.

“Since his short stint with us in Munich in 2013, Mathias has never lost touch with him,” said Munich manager Christian Winkler. After the door opened for a commitment, excellent discussions ensued, resulting in Mathias returning to Munich. Niederberger signed a one-year contract with Munich in 2013, but a few weeks later he said goodbye and moved to the United States for the LA Kings’ training team, the Manchester Monarchs.

In addition, Danish national striker Frans Nielsen of Isbren Berlin would end his career after the World Cup. The World Cup starts this Friday in Finland, for Niederberger, who is new to Munich, with the German national team with a cracker against Canada.

© dpa-infocom, dpa:220509-99-215807/2