Lukas Kwasniok: The new coach of 1. FC Köln is optimistic about the future!
Lukas Kwasniok will be the new coach of 1. FC Köln after being successful at Paderborn. Preparations will begin soon.

Lukas Kwasniok: The new coach of 1. FC Köln is optimistic about the future!
An exciting chapter begins for 1. FC Köln! Lukas Kwasniok was officially introduced as the club's new coach and brings a breath of fresh air to the club. The 43-year-old, who previously spent four years at SC Paderborn, has signed a contract until June 30, 2028. A tacit agreement was reached on the transfer modalities for Kwasniok, whose previous contract was valid until 2026. Rumors say the transfer fee is less than one million euros. Cologne's sports director Thomas Kessler emphasized that Kwasniok is an excellent fit for 1. FC Köln and its location.
Kwasniok, who began his career in the youth ranks at Karlsruher SC, is looking forward to his new adventure with great anticipation. “FC is an amazing club and a huge opportunity,” said Kwasniok. His coaching career took him via FC Carl Zeiss Jena and 1. FC Saarbrücken to Paderborn, where he celebrated great successes, including reaching the DFB Cup semi-finals. The new coach said about his sporting philosophy: “I plan to shape FC with offensive football and a lot of passion.” You could feel the anticipation of the upcoming training and the new city in his words.
Insights into the new environment
Kwasniok was recently asked whether he would ride on a float during the Cologne Carnival. His response: “I probably won’t be able to drive.” Nevertheless, he appreciates the city with “the size of a metropolis and the friendliness of a village”. The coach not only brings experience, but also a positive, dynamic approach, which is of great importance for the newcomer.
Kwasniok already has a close connection to Cologne. His family came to Germany from Poland, and he grew up with legends like Pierre Littbarski and Thomas Häßler from an early age. The anticipation of the new challenges is great, especially with regard to the upcoming season.
Important dates are coming up
The first competitive game in the DFB Cup will take place on August 17th against third division team Jahn Regensburg. Training for Kwasniok's team will start on July 7th, followed by a training camp in Bad Waltersdorf, Styria, from July 19th to 26th. Kwasniok emphasizes the importance of strong team dynamics for future success and is looking forward to implementing his ideas and plans at 1. FC Köln.
In summary, it can be said that 1. FC Köln made a real stroke of luck with the signing of Lukas Kwasniok. The fans can hope for an exciting season and many beautiful moments!