Wed. Jan 8th, 2025


The Hamburger SV has pulled the ripcord: Steffen Baumgart is no longer coach of the Rothosen. This decision marks the end of a collaboration that began with high hopes but ultimately did not bear the desired fruit. A look at the developments that led to this decision, the current sporting situation and possible successors.

An ambitious start with high hopes

In the summer of 2022, Steffen Baumgart took over the helm at HSV after making a name for himself with his passionate nature and successful work at 1. FC Köln. With Baumgart, HSV wanted to end its five-year drought in the second division and achieve the long-awaited promotion back to the Bundesliga. The signing of the charismatic football teacher caused enthusiasm among fans, who were hoping for a new chapter.

The start was promising: HSV showed courageous offensive football in the first few months under Baumgart, but also repeatedly showed defensive weaknesses. The goal of promotion still seemed within reach.

The reason for the separation – a disappointing development

The decision to sack Baumgart came after the disappointing 2-2 draw against Schalke 04, when they carelessly squandered a 2-0 half-time lead. The fans, who had always stood behind the coach, were loud in their criticism for the first time. Those in charge also no longer saw any possibility of achieving a turnaround with Baumgart. The great pressure to finally achieve promotion left the club little other choice.

The sporting situation – a rocky road

With 6th place, HSV is currently not completely behind, but the promotion places seem to be a long way off given the form curve. It will be crucial how the team reacts to the coach’s dismissal. The squad has enough quality to climb back up the table, but the competition is strong. Teams like 1.FC Köln, SC Paderborn, Karlsruher SC and Fortuna Düsseldorf are currently playing more consistently and are putting additional pressure on HSV.

Possible successors – who will take the helm?

The question of Baumgart’s successor is currently the big topic on the Elbe. Some names are already circulating:

  1. Tim Walter: The former HSV coach would be a surprising but not unlikely candidate. His playing philosophy could revitalize the team.
  2. Daniel Farke: The former Gladbach coach has Bundesliga experience and stands for structured football.
  3. Dieter Hecking: The experienced football teacher has already coached HSV in the 2019/20 season and could represent an interim solution.
  4. Ole Werner: The ex-Bremen coach is available and knows the challenges of the 2nd Bundesliga inside out.
  5. André Breitenreiter: An experienced coach who has proven several times that he can shape promoted teams.

HSV now has the difficult task of quickly finding a coach who can stabilize the team and at the same time keep their dream of promotion alive.

Conclusion

The dismissal of Steffen Baumgart is a turning point for HSV and shows how great the pressure is on the traditional club. It remains to be seen whether the change on the sidelines will be enough to achieve the goal of promotion to the Bundesliga. What is certain, however, is that the coming weeks will set the tone for the club and its future. The fans hope that the new coach will turn things around and that Bundesliga football will finally take place again in the Volksparkstadion.