Updated Article:
Alexander Rosen, the ex-boss of TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, has made his first public statement since his abrupt departure from the club. In a chat with the German Press Agency, the 45-year-old expressed gratitude towards benefactor Dietmar Hopp, who gave him the chance to manage a Bundesliga club at the tender age of 33.
Rosen, who served Hoffenheim since 2010 and then took over as managing director of sports in 2021, exited under unusual circumstances. Hoffenheim's controlling shareholders, including Hopp, decided to pull the plug on Rosen's tenure just before the start of the new Bundesliga season.
Simone Engelhardt, who stepped in as the interim chairperson, attributed the move to future planning. Despite his absence, Hoffenheim's 84-year-old figurehead Hopp and his inner circle maintain a significant influence at the club.
Rosen, however, watches the current events with apprehension but wishes the team luck as they tackle the challenges ahead.
Amidst the upheaval, a new president will be elected at TSG's forthcoming member assembly on Monday, with Jörg Albrecht, the mayor of Sinsheim, as the lone announced contender. Rumors suggest that someone from the ultra scene might also throw their hat into the ring.
Behind the Scenes
Hoffenheim's turmoil extends beyond the managerial changes. The team, hovering just above the relegation zone, has amassed the lowest points at this stage of the season since 2015/16 and the second-lowest overall since promotion to the Bundesliga in 2008. The club's struggles stem from both poor offensive production and significant injury issues, including key players like Ozan Kabak, Ihlas Bebou, and Grischa Prömel.
The team's €76 million investment in new players, including loan signings, hasn't yielded the desired results. Meanwhile, the club faces criticism for inconsistent performances and spendthrift management decisions.
Rosen's dismissal, without clear reasons, led to fan protests and tension between the club and the ultra scene. Matarazzo's departure, following 16 games with only three wins, further fueled the turmoil.
Despite the challenges, Rosen remains optimistic, praising Hopp for the opportunity to manage a Bundesliga club at such a young age.
