FC Augsburg’s Road to Recovery: A Strategic Rebuild in the Bundesliga

The latest installment of Bundesliga transfer analyses here at Get German Football News shines a light on the tumultuous situation at FC Augsburg. After a disastrous rebranding effort led by Sandro Wagner, the Bavarian club aims to return to its roots and rebuild.

This author, like countless other enthusiasts of German football, has dedicated significant time and effort to understand and address the challenges facing the club.

With an eye on the future, it is crucial to note that Manuel Baum has been appointed as the head coach for this urgent rebuilding phase. The success of this popular figure relies heavily on how the newly restructured front office navigates the upcoming transfer window. New sporting director Benni Weber has a monumental task ahead to ensure that Baum is equipped with the right personnel to succeed.

The current situation is undeniably disheartening.

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

What more is there to say? The author’s enthusiasm for the Wagner era was maintained for as long as possible. However, attending matches in person has led to a stronger alignment with the sentiments of loyal ultras and dedicated fans. As always, the voices of supporters resonate loudly in the best football league in the world. The pressing question now is how to rectify the current predicament.

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

It is essential to acknowledge that the summer transfer window yielded promising talent. Overall, the investments made were largely justified. After expressing a customary grievance regarding the loan of Steve Mounie, it is time to commend several new additions who have made a significant impact. Han-Noah “Hans” Massengo has consistently performed as a reliable midfielder, serving as a crucial component of the team.

Robin Fellhauer’s remarkable early-season performances, alongside Anton Kade’s impressive resurgence, highlight the savvy decisions made by the management in acquiring hardworking players reminiscent of the resilient “Fabian Rieder” type. Rieder’s contributions were substantial, despite a few disappointing matches against Mainz, Hoffenheim, and RB Leipzig. Unfortunately, Elias Saad has not yet lived up to expectations, but there is still hope for both him and fellow Tunisian international Ismäel Gharbi, who has seen limited action. Additionally, younger players like Noahkhai Banks and Mert Kömür, who were secured on new contracts during the offseason, require more time to develop.

Critics may argue that the €4 million investment to permanently acquire Cedric Zesiger was misguided, but such an outcome was unpredictable given Zesiger’s stellar performance last season. His defensive partner, Chrislain Matsima, has also proven to be a valuable asset. Overall, Michael Ströll and the new management team have made sound decisions, and financially, the club remains in a favorable position. The club-owned stadium generates substantial revenue, membership numbers have surged to over 30,000, and Ströll reported an €18.1 million net annual profit during the last general meeting.

It may be time to part ways with promising former Germany U21 internationals Maximilian Bauer and Arne Maier. Given the club’s current relegation battle, it is sensible to retain youngsters like Oliver Sorg and Aiman Dardari, who can contribute to the squad. Meanwhile, players like Mahmut Kücüksahin, Felix Meiser, and Franz Bleicher should seek opportunities elsewhere if they are to avoid stagnation between the reserve and senior teams.

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

There is strong evidence that clubs in the 2. Bundesliga may be interested in acquiring Mads Pedersen and Philipp Tietz. It would be prudent for the front office to consider cashing in on the latter two, as they are in the final year of their contracts. One sincerely hopes that club captain Jefferey Gouweleeuw can return from injury in time to make a symbolic farewell appearance before his contract concludes.

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

Additionally, while acquiring more depth on the left flank could be beneficial, the priority is to secure a leading striker. It is anticipated that the club will pursue two or three candidates for this critical role in the upcoming weeks. Currently, there is little stirring in the rumor mill. If talks surrounding Mërgim Berisha turn out to be true, it would be both surprising and frustrating.

Conversely, the prospect of Augsburg bringing in Wolfsburg striker Dzenan Pejcinovic on loan makes more sense, especially as he begins to regain form. Simply put, the front office, having endured years of unsuccessful signings, desperately needs to find a striker who can deliver results—no more 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