Sandro Wagner becomes coach at Unterhaching
Former Bundesliga striker Sandro Wagner has taken over as coach of SpVgg Unterhaching in Germany's 3. Liga. Lacking extensive coaching experience, he is embracing significant risk to save the relegation-threatened club. The appointment represents a bold career move for the 36-year-old.
Sandro Wagner, who enjoyed success as a player for clubs like Bayern Munich and Hertha BSC, took over as head coach of SpVgg Unterhaching on October 10, 2023. The club from the Munich suburbs is battling relegation in Germany's 3. Liga and currently sits in a drop zone. Wagner, who retired from playing in 2018, brings no long-term coaching experience—he holds only the UEFA B license and has previously worked as a player agent and pundit.
In an interview with Spiegel Online, Wagner stated: "It is a risk, but I am ready to take it. Unterhaching needs fresh wind, and I want to help with my passion and knowledge." The club's president, Manfred Schwabl, welcomed the decision: "Sandro is a winner-mentor. His closeness to the players as a former pro will strengthen us."
The background to the appointment stems from the team's crisis: Under predecessor coach Christian Weinberger, Unterhaching had secured only two wins in the first 13 matches. Wagner is set to lead interim until the end of the season and stabilize the squad. Experts view the choice as a 'risk player' move, as Wagner's lack of experience could lead to failure but also holds potential for success, similar to other ex-players who have thrived in coaching.
Fans have mixed reactions: Many are excited about the prominent name, while others doubt its feasibility. Wagner's first match is scheduled against VfL Osnabrück. Long-term, he plans to obtain the A license to solidify his career.