Second-tier German club Hamburger SV has dismissed manager Steffen Baumgart following a winless streak spanning five matches across all competitions.
The club announced on Sunday that it had parted ways with Baumgart, citing a “downturn in both performance and results” after the team’s recent 2-2 home draw against Schalke.
The result positions Hamburg in eighth place in the 18-team league, trailing four points behind current frontrunner Paderborn after 13 matches played.
“Steffen demonstrated unwavering dedication, enthusiasm and professionalism until his final day at HSV. Nevertheless, our assessment of the present circumstances and yesterday’s match has reinforced our belief that fresh leadership is essential,” explained Hamburg sporting director Stefan Kuntz.
The club reported that Baumgart, who supported Hamburg in his youth, received the news “stoically” on Sunday morning.
“My tenure here has been both thrilling and remarkably demanding,” remarked the former Cologne manager. “I shall maintain my connection to the club and wish HSV success in achieving their objectives.”
Hamburg has sought promotion to the Bundesliga since their relegation in 2018. They had previously maintained uninterrupted top-flight status since the league’s inception in 1963, earning them the moniker “der Dino.”
But every season since relegation has ended in disappointment. Hamburg rival St. Pauli was promoted last season to add to Hamburg fans’ woes.
Baumgart, a former Hansa Rostock and Union Berlin forward, took over as Hamburg coach in February, when the team was third, but ultimately it was unable to improve and finished fourth – one place behind Fortuna Düsseldorf in the promotion playoff spot.
Hamburg said Baumgart’s assistants Rene Wagner and Kevin McKenna were also let go, and that assistant coach Merlin Polzin will prepare the team for its next game at Karlsruher SC.
There was no mention of a permanent successor.
