FC Basel fires coach Magnin after dramatic derby win over Zurich
FC Basel has sacked head coach Ludovic Magnin despite a dramatic 4–3 derby win over FC Zurich. The decision, announced on 26 January 2026, follows growing concerns over the team’s leadership and performance. Club officials opted for an immediate change rather than waiting for further results.
Magnin’s departure comes after a season where Basel’s double championship was viewed by many as unexpected. Repeating that success always seemed unlikely, especially with a squad lacking experienced players and strong leadership. While the sporting director holds primary responsibility for assembling the team, the club’s leadership chose to act swiftly, showing little patience for further development under Magnin.
Reports from outlets like Blick and Watson suggest Stephan Lichtsteiner is the leading candidate to replace him. Other names in consideration include David Degen and Sandro Wagner. The timing of the dismissal, though abrupt, aligns with a common trend in professional football, where mid-season coaching changes are rarely a shock. Despite the victory over Zurich, Basel’s management clearly felt a shift was necessary. The decision reflects broader dissatisfaction with the team’s direction rather than a reaction to a single result.
The club now faces the task of stabilizing the squad under new leadership. Lichtsteiner, if appointed, will inherit a team in need of structure and experience. Basel’s next moves will determine whether this change brings the consistency they have been missing.
