By Daniel Richardson
MUNICH – Former captain and fan favorite Stefan Lex is returning to TSV 1860 München, but not as a player or sporting director as some speculated. Instead, the club confirmed Thursday that Lex will take on the newly created position of “Koordinator Perspektivspieler” (Coordinator of Perspective Players), effective March 15, 2026. This move aims to strengthen the link between the club’s youth academy, the Bayerische Nachwuchsleistungszentrum, and the first team.
Lex, who played for 1860 between 2018 and 2023, appearing in 184 matches and contributing 90 goals and assists, remained involved with the club in various capacities even after retiring from playing. He previously worked in talent development, as well as serving as a co-coach and team manager. His return marks a significant investment in developing homegrown talent for the Löwen.
The role will see Lex working closely with the coaching staffs of both the youth teams and the professional squad, guiding promising young players as they transition towards a potential career in the first team. He will also assist Managing Director Manfred Paula and Head Scout Jürgen Jung with player recruitment for the professional team. This is a critical function for a club like 1860, which prides itself on its connection to the local football community and its commitment to developing young players.
“Stefan Lex knows the club, our values, and the demands of professional football very well,” said Manfred Paula in a statement released by the club. “With his experience, his identification with TSV 1860 München, and his close relationship with the players, he is the ideal candidate to support and develop our talents as they transition from the youth system to the professional level.”
Lex himself expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “TSV 1860 is my club. I am very happy to work with young players again and help them on their way to professional football. Manfred Paula, members of the board, and former colleagues have repeatedly contacted me in recent months, trying to convince me to return sooner. I am all the more pleased to be back here now. The transition from youth to the senior team is a crucial phase where players need the best possible support.”
The appointment of Lex also effectively ends speculation surrounding a potential return for another 1860 legend, Benny Lauth, to a similar role. Even as Lauth remains a beloved figure at the club, the organization has opted for Lex’s experience in bridging the gap between the academy and the first team.
This move comes as 1860 continues to invest in its youth development program. The Bayerische Nachwuchsleistungszentrum is a key component of the club’s long-term strategy, and Lex’s role is designed to ensure a steady stream of talented players are prepared to compete at the professional level. For fans, this represents a commitment to the future and a continuation of the club’s tradition of nurturing local talent.
Lex was observed attending training with the professional team earlier this week, signaling his immediate integration into the club’s operations. He’s already familiar with the current squad and the coaching staff, which should facilitate a smooth transition into his fresh responsibilities. The timing of the appointment, just weeks before the start of a potentially crucial period in the season, suggests the club is eager to see the benefits of this strengthened youth-to-pro pathway as quickly as possible.
The creation of the “Koordinator Perspektivspieler” position highlights a growing trend in German football, where clubs are increasingly recognizing the importance of a dedicated role to manage the development of young players. It’s a proactive step by 1860 to ensure they remain competitive both on and off the pitch.
TSV 1860 München will next face [insert opponent and date here – information not provided in sources], and Lex will be observing closely as the team continues its campaign. Fans can follow updates on the club’s official website: https://www.tsv1860.de/de/
What do you think of Stefan Lex’s return to 1860 in this new role? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
