During the 2008–09 German football season, Hamburger SV competed in the Bundesliga.

They also made it to the semi-finals of the DFB-Pokal and the UEFA Cup, but were beaten by Werder Bremen in both competitions, on penalties and away goals respectively.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.