HAMBURG, Germany — Hamburger SV, a former giant in the Bundesliga, has decided to part ways with coach Steffen Baumgart after a disappointing streak of five winless matches across all competitions.
The club announced the decision on Sunday, attributing it to a “crisis of performances and results,” particularly emphasized by the recent 2-2 draw at home against Schalke the previous day. This result left Hamburg in eighth place in the 18-team second division, trailing early leaders Paderborn by four points after 13 rounds of play.
“Steffen showed immense passion, energy, and commitment to HSV until the very end. However, our review of the current circumstances and yesterday’s performance has made it clear that we need a fresh start,” stated Hamburg’s sporting director Stefan Kuntz. The organization shared that Baumgart accepted the news with composure the following morning, despite the disappointment.
“It’s been an exciting and intense period,” Baumgart reflected. “I will always have a connection to the club and sincerely wish HSV the best in reaching their objectives.” Hamburg has been striving to return to the Bundesliga since its relegation in 2018. They were the sole team to have played continuously in the league since its inception in 1963, leading to their nickname, “der Dino.”
Unfortunately, each attempt to climb back to the top level has ended in disappointment for the club, particularly with their rival St. Pauli making advancements by being promoted last season, adding to the heartache for Hamburg supporters.
Baumgart, who previously played for Hansa Rostock and Union Berlin, took charge of Hamburg in February when the team was positioned third, but the squad failed to improve and concluded the season in fourth place, just shy of the promotion playoff spot occupied by Fortuna Düsseldorf.
In addition to Baumgart’s departure, his assistants Rene Wagner and Kevin McKenna have also been relieved of their duties. Assistant coach Merlin Polzin is set to prepare the team for their upcoming match against Karlsruher SC. The club has not yet announced a permanent successor for Baumgart.