Ex-boss Rosen speaks out on Hoffenheim turmoil with gratitude for Hopp
Alexander Rosen, the former Director of Professional Football for TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, has broken his silence since his controversial departure from the club. In an interview with the German Press Agency, Rosen praised club benefactor Dietmar Hopp and expressed regret over his inability to thank his associates during his departure.
At 45 years old, Rosen recalled the opportunity Hopp gave him to manage a Bundesliga club at the age of 33. When Hoffenheim decided to shake up the management team a few weeks before the start of the season, it resulted in Rosen being ousted from his position. Hopp, as the 84-year-old leader of the football operations GmbH, led the unanimous agreement to dismiss Rosen.
Simone Engelhardt, the interim chairperson of the registered association, attributed the decision to future planning. Rosen's departure caused a divide between the club and the fan base, with supporters boycotting the team during the Bundesliga opener against Holstein Kiel.
With uncertainty surrounding the club's future, a new president will be chosen in a forthcoming member assembly. The only named contender is Mayor of Sinsheim, Jörg Albrecht, although there are rumors about an ultra scene member running for the position.
As Hoffenheim continues to face internal challenges, Rosen remains appreciative of his time at the club, stating, "I have to thank Dietmar Hopp once again for giving me the opportunity to manage a Bundesliga club at such a young age."
Enrichment Data:
- The turmoil at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim began when Alexander Rosen was unexpectedly dismissed just before the start of the new season in July 2024. The club's official reason was differing opinions on the future direction, but many believe it was an unjustified move that has exacerbated the current crisis.
- The team's on-field performance has suffered significantly since Rosen's departure. Despite investing heavily in new players totalling around 76 million euros, the team has only managed three wins in 16 league matches and is currently in 15th place, just above the relegation zone.
- The high player turnover rate, with 34 different players used during the current season, has not translated into a functional team, which has furthered fan discontent.
- Thomas Schmitz, a long-time fan and member of the Hoffenheim Fan Council, has criticized the club's leadership for making unnecessary changes and not addressing structural issues that have alienated fans.
