A coach is dismissed from their position. - Exciting clash for 96th promotion spot
The U23 team is set to become the North champion and is on the brink of promotion to the 3rd league. They will face Würzburg in two vital games to secure the last spot in German professional football. The opening match takes place on Wednesday at 7 pm at the Bayern champions, followed by the second game on Sunday, June 2, at 3:30 pm in Hannover. Should 96 win these games, they would become the first second-league club to have a second professional team in the 3rd league.
Prior to the promotion battles, Zündstoff presents an intriguing backstory for two former friends. 96's sports director Marcus Mann (40) and Würzburg's head coach Marco Wildersinn (43) had a strong bond, but their friendship was shattered in October 2020.
Mann Sacked Würzburg Coach!
Mann served as the youth director at Hoffenheim for a season, from 2021/22. During that time, Wildersinn was the U23 coach and experienced a poor start. Following the fifth defeat in the seventh game, Mann dismissed Wildersinn, less than three months into the season.
Mann shared his sentiments: "I had to make the tough decision. It wasn't my favorite choice, but it's part of the job." The dismissal left a lasting impression on Mann, as he and Wildersinn had a history.
They had played together at KSC (2003-2005) and Stuttgarter Kickers (2007/08). Eventually, Wildersinn coached Mann at Hoffenheim II (2014-2016). Despite their shared history, Wildersinn lost touch with Mann after the dismissal. Until Wednesday, that is, when they will cross paths during the first promotion game.
Mann acknowledged Wildersinn's contributions, saying, "Over the past years, Marco has done an excellent job at Hoffenheim and now in Würzburg." However, he didn't shy away from expressing his desire for 96 to be the victors, stating, "It's nicer if we promote instead of him." Should this happen, Hannover 96 would make history by having two professional teams in the 3rd league.
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Source: symclub.org
