TSG 1899 Hoffenheim Retains Sporting Director Andreas Schicker Amid Interest from Wolfsburg

In a surprising development, the board of TSG 1899 Hoffenheim has successfully persuaded sporting director Andreas Schicker to remain with the Bundesliga club. On Saturday, the interim board, led by Christoph Henssler and Frank Engelhardt, announced Schicker’s decision to continue in Sinsheim, with all parties involved releasing statements regarding the matter.

Recent interest from VfL Wolfsburg seemed to suggest that Schicker’s departure was imminent, with reports indicating that the only remaining issue was for the two clubs to agree on a transfer fee. High-level negotiations took place between Wolfsburg and Hoffenheim earlier in the week.

According to Kicker, the pivotal factor in the final decision was the veto imposed by interim board co-chairman Christoph Henssler, which represents a significant victory for a faction within the club that seeks to reduce the influence of controversial agent Roger Wittmann. Henssler, a former ultra, is regarded as an integral link to the fan base.

“I am delighted that Andreas Schicker has chosen to continue on the successful path of TSG,” Henssler stated in a club announcement on Saturday. “He has been instrumental in shaping this club.”

His co-chairman Engelhardt added, “We have engaged in trusting and substantive discussions with Dietmar Hopp at the shareholder level. After what have been undoubtedly turbulent weeks, it is crucial for all of us to return to stability, continuity, and calm.”

Wolfsburg, Schicker, and club patron Dietmar Hopp also issued statements following the announcement. Wolfsburg expressed gratitude to Hoffenheim for their “constructive discussions” and indicated their respect for Hoffenheim’s decision to retain Schicker.

“I am honored by the interest shown by other clubs,” Schicker remarked. “It is a positive affirmation of the work we are doing here in Kraichgau. The TSG shareholders have provided me with a clear perspective on continuing to work successfully here. We have intentionally rebuilt the team over the summer, and now it is important that we work together without distractions.”

Hopp further added, “The interest from various clubs is a testament to Andreas Schicker’s capabilities. Under his leadership, our team has rediscovered its ‘TSG DNA.’ The team has become younger, and the style of play has become more attractive and successful. We hope that Andreas Schicker will play a pivotal role in shaping this path for a long time to come.”