Reputations in football are much quicker dismantled as it takes time to build them. Magdeburg are the latest example in this list. Or rather, their – now – former coach, Christian Titz. Towards the end of last season, Magdeburg were as comprehensively as surprisingly beaten by Münster: 5-0 was the result. The hopes for promotion got big dent; this got bigger the following week at Paderborn. Despite a 1-0 lead after 16 minutes, Magdeburg went home empty-handed and all hopes of going up to the top division were well and truly over. The final home game against Düsseldorf served to cement fifth place.
In the post-season chill rumours broke that the Magdeburg coach, Christian Titz, put in a transfer request straight after either, the Münster or Paderborn games. These rumours were confirmed in the post-season press conference at which Ottmar Schork, sporting director confirmed that Titz wanted to leave. Of course, in late May the club tried to keep their coach. He has become a hero, having secured the club from going to the fourth devision in 2021 and led them to the 2. Bundesliag a year later. After an 11th and 14th place finishes in 2023 and 2024 respectively, Magdeburg only surrendered their chances of going up during those final weeks in May 2025.
What followed was an eerie silence with rumours spreading of possible destinations: Schalke, Köln, even Queens Park Rangers were mentioned. Of course, Hamburg were mentioned where Titz was fired some years previous. Yet, slowly news crept in that none other than Hanover 96 were front runnners in securing Titz’ services. Now this is a farce, indeed. Hanover finished 10th – behind Magdeburg and were out of contention for promotion.
True, Hanover, alongside Schalke, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Hertha BSC have the biggest stadium capacities in this division. Hamburg and Köln are now one tier higher; Kiel and Bochum have by far not this capacity. This means, the budget in Hanover may be bigger. Yet, they have not managed to return to the Bundesliga in seven years. Their return does not look likely come the next season.
Yet, a move, a change is nothing new and something that everyone should be allowed to. In the eyes of Magdeburg supporters it feels like a step back, not forward. Moreover, Hanover are a direct rival for a top ten finish next season. This may not go down well with some sections of the fans. The logical step would have been a Bundesliga team, a team abroad or a clear contender for promotion next season, i.e. Fortuna Düsseldorf.
It is tiresome to discuss the ‘ifs’ and ‘whens’ – Titz has gone, he has got his will and Magdeburg have received a recompensation from Hanover 96. It means a fresh start for Magdeburg with a new coach, a different idea of football.
Upwards and onwards!
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