FC and Steffen Baumgart go their separate ways
1. FC Köln and head coach Steffen Baumgart will go their separate ways at the end of the year. Those responsible for the sporting side of affairs, Managing Director Christian Keller and Head of Football, Thomas Kessler and the 51-year-old coach had as discussed spoken about the sporting situation before and against the game against 1. FC Union Berlin and together came to that decision.
Steffen Baumgart took charge of 1. FC Köln in summer 2021, after FC had secured safety in the relegation play-off against Holstein Kiel. In his first season as coach, he and the coaching staff developed the squad and managed to secure qualification for the UEFA Europa Conference League. In his second year, the team reached the group stage of the competition and secured 11th place in the Bundesliga.
“During his time at FC, Steffen and his coaching staff did great work. He had huge identification for the club and our strategy, and despite the many challenges extended his contract twice. Away from the pitch, Steffen was always ready to help and exchange ideas as to how to develop FC further. The path required strength and conviction, from all involved and most of all Steffen. After the current unsatisfactory start to the season, we were very open, direct, factual and respectful in the last days and weeks, as to whether or not the strength and conviction are there in the required amount. For that reason, it is to be fully respected that Steffen questioned his own personal conviction. As a result, we collectively decided to end our working relationship – even when that hurts, personally,” said FC Managing Director, Christian Keller.
“Everyone can imagine that the decision to leave FC is one that I did not take lightly. The club has become home for me in the last two-and-a-half years. What we achieved together makes me proud, with the team, with the staff but also with the entire club. At the same time, that is also the reason why I have the feeling that it needs a change. FC stands above all. Even though we invested a lot in the past months, the results haven’t been there. Perhaps it needs a new impulse. To leave hurts, but I am thankful for the time here and want to thank FC, after working here with my heart and closeness, especially those responsible, my coaching staff, my team and the fans,” said FC head coach, Steffen Baumgart.
“Steffen helped FC from the very beginning with his positive, emotional and rousing personality. He led from the front and gave a lot to FC, the city, the fans and everyone involved at the club. We thank Steffen wholeheartedly for everything what he achieved at FC and for the wonderful moments that we experienced with him. He will always be a part of the FC family. For the future, we wish Steffen and his family the very best,” said FC-President, Dr. Werner Wolf.
