The 20-year-old Turkey international has considerable technical ability, but Hütter believes his progress depends on understanding how best to contribute to the collective effort.
“The sooner Can understands that football is also a team sport, where he can bring his abilities into play, the greater career he will have. If not, he could potentially stand in his own way,” Hütter said at his press conference.
The coach made clear that Uzun’s talent was not in question. His concern is whether the attacking midfielder can deliver his best level consistently, both during the week in training and when selected for matches.
“He is a very good footballer; there is no need to debate that. But I also expect consistency, and I expect Can Uzun to show the abilities he has during the week and in games,” Hütter said.
Uzun has been an important attacking prospect since joining Frankfurt from Nuremberg, but he is still seeking a sustained breakthrough in his third season with the club. His recent omission from the starting line-up against Cologne, a 1-0 victory for Frankfurt, prompted further discussion about his role.
Hütter was also critical of the attention surrounding that decision, pointing out that the player had been left out only once in the opening rounds.
“Now he has not played once, just once in these first rounds, and it immediately becomes a topic. That is what I cannot understand,” the coach said.
The comments underline the balance Frankfurt are trying to strike: encouraging Uzun’s individual qualities while ensuring he fits into the team’s tactical demands. His attacking instincts make him a valuable option, but Hütter wants him to apply those qualities more reliably and contribute without the ball as well.
Uzun attracted considerable transfer interest during the summer, with Galatasaray among the clubs reportedly keen to sign him. Other teams from Spain and England were also linked with the midfielder, and reports suggested offers in the €30 million to €35 million range were possible. Frankfurt were said to value him at around €60 million, and no deal materialised.
He remains under contract until 2029, giving Frankfurt a strong position as they continue to develop him.
Hütter’s message is not that Uzun lacks the talent to succeed. Instead, the coach has challenged him to make his ability work within the team and to demonstrate the same standards consistently in training and competitive matches.