FC Augsburg Faces Challenges Amidst Losing Streak

Bundesliga club FC Augsburg is heading into the November international break in a state of decline, suffering five consecutive losses. The Fuggerstädter were unable to secure even a draw between the October and November breaks. The league competition, featuring tough opponents such as Köln, RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, and VfB Stuttgart, posed significant challenges. Additionally, their exit from the DFB-Pokal in the second round against Bochum at home was particularly disappointing.

Head coach Sandro Wagner’s squad made a commendable effort to bounce back from a heavy 0-6 defeat at home to Leipzig, delivering improved performances against Bochum and Dortmund. In these subsequent home matches, Augsburg conceded only a single goal. However, the team did allow three goals against Stuttgart, although players Fabian Rieder and Han-Noah Massengo managed to score.

“We’re performing well, but still losing,” remarked FCA sporting director Benni Weber in the mixed zone following Sunday’s match. “When you lose, it’s frustrating. We have demonstrated our ability to be decisive in both victories and defeats. We’ve also faced some questionable refereeing decisions. We have been close to earning not just one point, but potentially three.”

Wagner echoed Weber’s sentiments during the post-match press conference. He expressed confidence in the club’s administrative and coaching staff to remain united until the team can rediscover its form.

“From a content perspective, our performance was good,” Wagner stated at the press conference. “Although it was disappointing from a points perspective. My career has never been straightforward; I have faced numerous challenges since my early days at FC Bayern. The key is to persevere and maintain a positive outlook. That’s what I intend to do.”

Wagner’s notable playing career, which began at Bayern and included struggles with various clubs in the Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga, and 3. Liga, was marked by adversity. He only earned call-ups to the German national team after returning to Bayern towards the end of his professional journey.

“I refuse to allow us to adopt a victim mentality,” Weber emphasized. “I will not permit that, especially not from myself. We need to process this situation now and take proactive steps. There are no guarantees, particularly given our current form.”