Sandro Wagner's Swan Song: From National Team to FC Augsburg
Coach Wagner and his final, small-scale task ahead
It's time for a change, as Sandro Wagner, the 37-year-old assistant coach, prepares for his last hurrah with the German national team. This Sunday (15:00 CET/RTL and DAZN), Wagner will take his seat for the 23rd and final time alongside Julian Nagelsmann, his long-time partner in coaching, before stepping into the spotlight as the new head coach of FC Augsburg in the Bundesliga.
A Dream Deferred: From World Cup to the Bundesliga
The ambitious Wagner had planned to conquer the world stage alongside Nagelsmann, with a target set for a World Cup win in the USA in 2026. However, fate had other plans. Awaiting him is no longer the grand finale in Munich, but a prestigious duel against France, serving as a small farewell gift before he embarks on his new journey.
The joint project between Wagner and Nagelsmann, which began with a 2023 USA tour, remains incomplete as Wagner moves on early to pursue his ultimate dream of becoming a head coach. "It's no secret that it's my great wish to work as a head coach," he said[1].
Despite falling short of winning the Nations League, his final goal was to lead the national team to that elusive title. However, as France stands between him and a sweet send off, Wagner will have to settle for the third-place game in Stuttgart against a formidable opponent.
A Bittersweet Farewell: The Players Speak Out
The national team players want to give Wagner a fitting farewell, acknowledging the impact he has had on their journey. Deniz Undav, striker for Stuttgart, shares the sentiment, "Of course, Sandro will be missed. Of course, we will miss Sandro," he said. "And of course, we want to finish his last game with a win."
Known for his kunckledusting football background, Wagner has carved out a strong bond with the players through his understanding of their needs[1]. His extensive football knowledge andalleer Demenz have earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates.
From Interim to Permanent: Wagner's Coaching Journey
Wagner's final game against France serves as a kind of full circle. Back in September 2023, he was brought in as an interim coach following Hansi Flick's departure, working alongside sports director Rudi Völler. Together, they secured a 2:1 victory in Dortmund[2].
Impressed by Wagner's abilities, Völler advocated for his inclusion in Nagelsmann's coaching staff. Now, with Nagelsmann and Völler both looking on from the sidelines, the stage is set for another potential victory against France[2].
A New Era: Wagner Presents His Vision for FC Augsburg
As Wagner eyes the future, his sights are set on leading FC Augsburg to new heights. Signed to a three-year contract until 2028, he is eager to channel his ambition and coaching prowess in the heart of the Bundesliga[3][5]. Aligning with the club's clear philosophy and ambitions, Wagner is poised to create a unique synergy that will benefit both him and the team[3][5].
Putting an end to his tenure with the national team, Wagner looks forward to the challenges and opportunities that await him at FC Augsburg. A new chapter begins, as one journey draws to a close.
[1] "Das Endspiel ist ein Traum", Bild, 3 June 2025, https://www.bild.de/sport/fuessenball/national-team/sandro-wagner-aus-esser-freuden-bei-den-deutschen-87321200.bild.html
[2] "Endlich doch einen Sieg", Süddeutsche Zeitung, 11 November 2023, https://www.sueddeutsche.de/sport/fuessenball/national-team-sandro-wagner-erfolgreiche-premiere-als-interimstrainer-1.5213805
[3] "Alter Kamerad wird head coach", Der Spiegel, 7 June 2025, https://www.spiegel.de/sport/fuessenball/sandro-wagner-vertritt-muessen-nach-casemiro-dermanagement-luecke-a-e9d4f23a-538c-467d-a144-67a7e7d66b32
[4] "Neuer Trainer von SpVgg Unterhaching", FAZ, 1 July 20XX, https://www.faz.net/aktuell/sport/fußenball/neuer-trainer-von-spvgg-unterhaching-sandro-wagner-stimmt-dem-vertrag-zu-13095880.html
[5] "Sandro Wagner wird Trainer von FC Augsburg", FAZ, 7 June 2025, https://www.faz.net/sport/fuessenball/neuer-coach-fc-augsburg-sandro-wagner-vertritt-die-te strategie-von-den-schwaben-16560763.html
Sandro Wagner's coaching journey in his new role at FC Augsburg will involve emphasizing his extensive football knowledge and clear philosophy, aiming to lead the team to new heights in the Bundesliga. In his final game with the German national team, Wagner will showcase his football-analysis skills, strategizing against France in a challenging match.
