The FC finally back in the red and white frenzy!
Sixth place instead of relegation battle. Full throttle football instead of safety kicks. The differences to last season – with an almost identical squad – could hardly be greater.
Most recently, coach Steffen Baumgart (49) said: “The first 100 days show that more is possible than many think.” And finally, fans in the stadium again!
In BILD, managing director Alexander Wehrle (46 / with FC since 2013) explains the Cologne boom!
Full stadium
► At the derby against Leverkusen (October 24th), FC may completely fill the stadium (50,000 spectators) for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic. While the tickets for Müngersdorf were torn from the club’s hand, other competitors are having a hard time with it.
“I assume that the derby will be sold out,” said Wehrle. “The fact is that we are unbeaten at home. It’s fun to watch the team. That, in combination with success, carries over to the fans. “
And further: “I cannot judge from a distance why other clubs have problems filling their stadiums.” For Cologne, on the other hand, a full hut seems a matter of course …
Trainer cult
► The fans have loved Baumgart since day one, and even challenged him as chancellor with chants! Because he is authentic and a clear speaker. In addition, advocates of spectacular football. The main reason for the boom?
Wehrle: “For sure! He brought in a new, offensive game philosophy. And exemplify the passion from the first to the 95th minute! Steffen fits here. The Cologne fans want one thing above all else: dedication to the last minute. The coach on the sidelines showed that – and his team on the pitch. “
Fan dreams
► The songs from the European Cup cannot be overheard. Much is reminiscent of the mega euphoria of the 2016/17 season under coach Peter Stöger (55 / now Ferencváros Budapest) when Cologne surprisingly managed to qualify for the Europa League.
Wehrle: “It’s nice when the fans have a dream – and I don’t want to take that away from them either.”
Do you also dream of Europe? Wehrle with a smile: “I see it a little more realistically. And wish me 40 points as early as possible. That counts for us. “
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