Holstein kiel sacks coach rapp after winless start

Holstein kiel dismisses coach marcel rapp amid poor form

Holstein Kiel has parted ways with head coach Marcel Rapp following a string of disappointing results. The German second-division club announced the decision on Tuesday, citing a need for a fresh impetus after five consecutive defeats in all competitions. The dismissal comes as the club battles to avoid relegation to the third tier.

Reasons for the dismissal

The club’s statement indicated that the decision followed “long internal discussions” and was a “joint and consensual” one, aimed at injecting new energy into the coaching position. Rapp had taken over in October 2021, leading Kiel to their first-ever Bundesliga promotion in 2024. However, the team’s recent form has raised serious concerns about their survival in the 2. Bundesliga.

Rapp's statement

“After the restructuring in the summer, we found ourselves in an ambitious but, in my view, very well planned development process. I am convinced that we would have successfully overcome the sporting challenges together and stabilized the season,” Rapp said in the club statement. “I respect the club’s decision and will continue on my way with full energy.”

Club's perspective

Olaf Rebbe, the club's managing director, stated that the coaching change is a “necessary step to release new energies.” After a thorough analysis of the sporting development and intensive discussions with the board of directors, the decision to seek a new coach was made. The club aims to announce a replacement “as soon as possible.” In the interim, the existing coaching and functional team, led by assistant coach Dirk Bremser, will take responsibility.

Current league position

Holstein Kiel currently sits in 14th place in the 2. Bundesliga, one point above the relegation playoff spot. Their next match is against SV Elversberg on Saturday, followed by a trip to league leaders Darmstadt 98 a week later. The club is looking for a quick turnaround to secure their place in the second division.

Recent form

• Five consecutive losses in all competitions.
• Currently in 14th position in the 2. Bundesliga.
• One point above the relegation playoff spot.

The club's fans and management will be hoping that a new coach can revitalize the team and steer them away from relegation. The pressure is on to find a suitable replacement quickly and get the team back on track.

Next fixtures

Holstein Kiel will face:

• SV Elversberg (Saturday, 13:00)
• Darmstadt 98 (One week later)