FC Köln Considers Coaching Changes: Funkel's Return or Internal Promotion Eyed as Kwasniok's Departure Looms

Relegation-threatened 1. FC Köln is reportedly evaluating two potential paths forward as they prepare to dismiss head coach Lukas Kwasniok. Recent confrontational media appearances by Kwasniok are said to have estranged club management. Reports indicate that the decision to part ways with the 44-year-old manager has already been made, with the Bundesliga club expected to finalize their next steps during the upcoming March international break.

Considering an Internal Promotion at Köln?

This season, three other Bundesliga teams—Augsburg, Borussia Mönchengladbach, and Wolfsburg—have turned to internal candidates after dismissing their head coaches. While Manuel Baum (Augsburg) and Eugen Polanski (Gladbach) still hold their positions, Daniel Bauer (Wolfsburg) has since been removed. Köln might be contemplating a similar, potentially risky, move with an unfamiliar face.

Lukas Kwasniok's position at Köln has been precarious for a while. The club is reportedly considering assistant coach René Wagner as a potential successor. Notably, Wagner would be the first assistant coach to be promoted to the top role this year, distinguishing him from previous internal hires like Baum (from the front office), Polanski (from the reserves), and Bauer (from the reserves).

Could Friedhelm Funkel Make a Comeback?

The esteemed 72-year-old German coach, Friedhelm Funkel, has a history with Köln, having guided them to promotion last year and successfully staving off relegation during a brief stint in the 2020/21 season. Funkel had expressed considerable enthusiasm for the Köln role last season, even indicating his desire to stay at the helm of "die Geißböcke" in the top division.

Despite his interest, discussions to appoint Funkel permanently collapsed last summer, which ultimately paved the way for Kwasniok's initial Bundesliga managerial role. Should Funkel return, it would mark his fourth coaching tenure with the cathedral city club and his third in the past five years.

Viability of These Options

Both potential appointments present challenges: Wagner might feel a sense of loyalty towards Kwasniok, while Funkel could conceivably still hold some lingering dissatisfaction over not securing a permanent position last year. However, the issue with Funkel is likely more easily rectifiable.

Consequently, Funkel's return appears to be a plausible scenario. Nevertheless, discussions might extend for several days as Köln's management explores additional alternatives. It remains possible that neither Funkel nor Wagner will ultimately be appointed to the role.