A young Jacob Neestrup takes charge
Jacob Neestrup, previously the assistant coach, was appointed as the new head coach the same day. Under his management, the team showed signs of improvement. In the 2022–23 Champions League group stage, Copenhagen managed to secure three draws at home, 0–0 against Sevilla (managed by Thorup),<[41] 0–0 against Manchester City,<[42] but following a 0–3 loss away to Sevilla sealed Copenhagen's 4th-place finish in the group and did not advance to the knockout stage.<[43] In the last group stage game, Copenhagen also drew 1-1 against Borussia Dortmund, where young talent Hákon Arnar Haraldsson scored the equalizer in the 41st minute following Thorgan Hazard's opener in the 23rd minute.<[44]
Domestically, Copenhagen's form improved following Neestrup's appointment. The team went unbeaten in the first 20 matches under his leadership and, after a victory against FC Nordsjælland in the Championship round, climbed to the top of the Superliga standings.<[45] The winter transfer window saw the arrival of Diogo Gonçalves and Jordan Larsson,<[46]<[47] while Victor Kristiansen was sold to Leicester City.<[48] Despite a few setbacks, including a tough run of one win in four games, the team regained its form with a crucial 3–1 victory over Brøndby in the away derby on 14 May 2023,<[49] despite the absence of key defenders Kevin Diks and Denis Vavro, who were suspended, and the injury to Davit Khocholava.<[50]
Copenhagen went on to win the Superliga title, securing their 15th championship. The victory came after a dramatic penultimate match day, where a loss for FC Nordsjælland ensured Copenhagen's title.<[51] The season also saw the team win the Danish Cup, defeating AaB 1–0 in the final following a goal by Diogo Gonçalves in the 48th minute.<[52] Neestrup's first season in charge was marked by a significant turnaround in the team's fortunes, leading to both domestic and European achievements, including the club's third star on their shirt.
The season also saw a rise in attendance at home matches, with an average of 28,860 spectators per game, reflecting an increase in fan support compared to the previous year.<[53]
Copenhagen's 2023–24 season was a blend of strong European performances and domestic struggles. The team showed resilience in their Champions League group stage, navigating a challenging group to progress to the Round of 16.<[54] Despite being eliminated by Manchester City,<[55] Copenhagen earned praise for their memorable results.<[56]
One of the standout matches came against Manchester United, where Copenhagen triumphed 4–3 in a thrilling encounter. Trailing 2–0 early after former Copenhagen youngster Rasmus Højlund scored twice for United, Copenhagen fought back with two quick goals just before halftime. Mohamed Elyounoussi pulled one back in the 45th minute, followed by a penalty from Diogo Gonçalves in the 45+9th minute to level the score. In the second half, Bruno Fernandes put United ahead with a penalty in the 69th minute, but Copenhagen responded with two late goals—Lukas Lerager in the 83rd minute and youngster Roony Bardghji scoring the winner in the 87th minute.<[57]
Copenhagen also earned an impressive 0–0 draw against Bayern Munich, holding the German giants to a stalemate in Allianz Arena.<[58] In their final group stage match, Copenhagen secured a crucial 1–0 win against Galatasaray, with Lukas Lerager scoring the only goal of the game in the 58th minute,<[59] and ensured their advancement to the Round of 16, where they were ultimately eliminated by Manchester City, losing 3–1 in both legs.<[60]
In the Danish Superliga, Copenhagen's season was marked by a mix of highs and lows. The team started strong, winning their first five matches and briefly occupying the top spot in the league. However, a series of disappointing results, including a 1–2 loss to both Viborg and AGF,<[61]<[62] saw the club fall down the table. By the midway point, they had slipped to third place.<[63]
The Championship round started poorly for Copenhagen, as they suffered a 1–2 loss to both Brøndby and Nordsjælland,<[64]<[65] followed by a 2–2 draw against Midtjylland.<[66] These results left the team trailing in the race for the title. However, a strong late surge of four consecutive wins brought them back into contention, briefly lifting them to first place.<[67] Unfortunately, they finished the season with two losses, allowing Brøndby and Midtjylland to overtake them.<[68] In a 1–1 draw against Nordsjælland secured third place for Copenhagen, and they subsequently won the European play-off match 2–1 against Randers, securing a spot in the 2024–25 Conference League second qualifying round.<[69]
Ahead of the 2024–25 season, Copenhagen unveiled an updated visual identity that strengthens its connection with the city and aligns with the club's growing ambitions. The new design, influenced by the club's "We are Copenhagen" strategy, includes modernized elements such as a more contemporary logo and the addition of a lioness alongside the lion in the club crest, symbolizing both the men's and women's teams. The updated brand also incorporates inspiration from Copenhagen's historic and modern elements, including new typography inspired by the city's street signs and an expanded color palette. This revamp aims to enhance Copenhagen's identity as both a sports and lifestyle brand, reflecting the club's evolving international presence and local roots.<[70]<[71] The same season they won the domestic double.<[72]<[73]
