FC Augsburg: A Strategic Reset Amidst Turmoil

The next installment of our 18 Bundesliga transfer primers on Get German Football News delves into the turbulent situation at FC Augsburg. The Bavarian club seeks to return to its roots following a disastrous rebranding that saw Sandro Wagner lead the team astray. Like many passionate German football fans, I have invested considerable time and effort in analyzing the club’s current predicament.

With that context established, we aim to shift our focus toward the future. Manuel Baum has been appointed as the head coach to spearhead this short-term rebuilding initiative. The success of Baum in his new role largely depends on how effectively the restructured front office navigates the upcoming transfer window. New sporting director Benni Weber must make astute decisions to ensure Baum has the right players at his disposal.

It’s undeniably a challenging moment for the club.

**Predicted Table Position:** 11th place
**Actual Table Position:** 15th place, 14 points
(4 Wins, 2 Draws, 9 Losses)
(-11 Goal Difference)

What more can be said? I maintained my support for Wagner’s leadership for as long as possible. However, my attendance at matches for a club I genuinely care about eventually aligned with the sentiments expressed by loyal ultras and dedicated members. The voices of the fans—as is often the case in top-tier football—have been heard. The pressing question now is: How do we rectify this?

**Estimated Summer Transfer Balance:** -€10.2 million

It is important to remember that the summer transfer window featured a strong class of players. Overall, the investments made were wise. After addressing the decision to loan out Steve Mounie, we can praise several new additions who have made a positive impact. Han-Noah “Hans” Massengo has proven to be a reliable midfielder, while Robin Fellhauer’s early-season heroics and Anton Kade’s recent surge in form highlight the club’s ability to recruit talented German players.

Fellhauer and Kade embody the tenacious spirit reminiscent of Fabian Rieder, who, despite some poor performances against Mainz, Hoffenheim, and RB Leipzig, has otherwise contributed positively. Unfortunately, Elias Saad has not lived up to expectations, but I remain hopeful for both him and fellow Tunisian international Ismäel Gharbi, as we have seen too little of them thus far. Young talents like Noahkhai Banks and Mert Kömür, who signed new contracts during the offseason, also need more time to develop.

Some critics point out that the €4 million spent on acquiring Cedric Zesiger permanently may have been a misstep, but such outcomes are often difficult to predict. Zesiger was outstanding last season, as was his defensive partner Chrislain Matsima, who represents a solid investment.

Michael Ströll and the new management have largely made commendable decisions. Financially, the club is in a strong position. The club-owned stadium generates significant revenue, membership has surpassed 30,000 this year, and Ströll reported an €18.1 million net gain at the last general meeting.

It seems prudent to part ways with former promising Germany U21 internationals Maximilian Bauer and Arne Maier. Given the team’s struggle against relegation, it is vital not to sideline younger players like Oliver Sorg or Aiman Dardari, who can contribute. Players such as Mahmut Kücüksahin, Felix Meiser, and Franz Bleicher may also seek opportunities elsewhere if they find themselves stuck between the first team and reserves.

**Dead-Weight Ledger:** Maximilian Bauer (CB), Felix Meiser (CB), Mads Pedersen (LB), Franz Bleicher (CM), Mahmut Kücüksahin (DM), Philip Tietz (LS)

There is evidence that teams are interested in acquiring Mads Pedersen and Philipp Tietz. Some clubs in the 2. Bundesliga might also be keen on players like Meier or Elvis Rexhbecaj. It would be wise for the front office to secure some funds for players whose contracts are expiring. One can only hope that captain Jefferey Gouweleeuw can return from injury in time to at least make a symbolic appearance before his contract concludes.

**Expiring Contracts:** Jeffrey Gouweleeuw (CB), Arne Maier (CM), Elvis Rexhbecaj (CM)

Furthermore, while additional support on the left side of attack may be beneficial, priority must be given to securing a true lead striker. It is anticipated that the club will pursue two or three candidates for this role in the coming weeks. Currently, there is little exciting activity in the rumor mill. If the whispers regarding Mërgim Berisha hold any truth, I would be both surprised and frustrated.

The prospect of Augsburg borrowing Wolfsburg striker Dzenan Pejcinovic, who is starting to find form, makes more sense. Simply put, the front office, after several costly misjudgments, desperately needs a striker who can deliver results—no more players like Berisha, Dion Drena Beljo, Irvin Cardona, Ricardo Pepi, Pep Biel, Kelvin Yeboah, or Nathanaël Mbuku.

**Further Needs:** LB, LW, CF, SS, LS
**Rumored Links:** Raoul Petretta (LB), Adin Licia (RW), Mërgim Berisha (CF), Dzenan Pejcinovic (CF)

GGFN | Peter Weis