SV Waldhof Mannheim separates from coach Glawogger after a bad start!

SV Waldhof Mannheim separates from coach Glawogger after a bad start!

SV Waldhof Mannheim has taken a drastic step and parted ways with coach Dominik Glawogger. The decision was announced on Monday 11th August and follows an unfortunate opening period in the third division, where the team managed to pick up just one point from their first two games. The day before there was a 0-1 defeat against Hansa Rostock, which was apparently the last straw. Managing director Gerhard Zuber was unequivocal: Despite the personnel continuity in the team, the next step in sporting development had not been successful. Before his dismissal, Glawogger had been in the coaching bench since April 2023 and was only given a contract extension in June. This shows that the new separation didn't take long to happen - just eight weeks have passed.

But the change doesn't stop there. Waldhof Mannheim has already found a successor for Glawogger – 35-year-old Dominik Glawogger. His signing came less than 24 hours after parting ways with Bernhard Trares, who was previously responsible for the sporting management. The exact extent of the new contract was not publicly communicated, but Zuber expressed high praise for Glawogger's development and work ethic. The new coach should bring a breath of fresh air with a modern approach to the game, which is currently in 16th place in the table and dangerously close to the relegation zone.

Personnel changes and challenges

There have also been massive changes in other key positions in the last 48 hours. Sports director Anthony Loviso was fired, while Gerhard Zuber and sports director Mathias Schober are new to the team. This upheaval brings both challenges and opportunities. However, Glawogger expressed optimism and emphasized that cooperation within the club will be crucial to ensure relegation. The challenges ahead should not be underestimated - there are still six games left, including encounters with the best three teams in the league.

Glawogger will lead his first training session on Thursday and has already prepared for the home game against TSV 1860 Munich on Sunday. Before his new challenge, he most recently worked for regional league team Teutonia Ottensen, where he was released in February 2024. He is also currently completing the course for the UEFA Pro license, which is necessary for the 3rd league.

SV Waldhof fans can hope for exciting weeks in which it will become clear whether the new coach can turn things around. The signs are delicate, but perhaps the fresh environment and the new wind will bring a great chance for a positive turnaround in the season.

For more information about the coaching changes in the 3rd league, take a look at Transfermarkt.

The situation at Waldhof Mannheim remains exciting, and time will tell whether Glawogger has the right touch to lead the team out of the crisis.