Rosen Speaks Out on TSG Departure
In a first since his controversial exit from TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Alexander Rosen opened up, expressing gratitude to benefactor Dietmar Hopp. At 45, the ex-gaffer reflected on missed chances to thank colleagues during his departure.
"Shout-out to Dietmar Hopp," Rosen discussed with the German Press Agency. "He handed me the reins to manage a Bundesliga club at 33, over a decade ago. I'm thankful for that."
Hoffenheim initiated management changes a few weeks before the Bundesliga kick-off, ending Rosen's tenure as sports director. Controlling shareholders of the football operations GmbH, led by Hopp, reportedly agreed unanimously to oust Rosen.
Simone Engelhardt, now the interim chairperson due to representing the majority shareholder, attributed the separation to future planning. Hopp, a 84-year-old figure, and his inner circle maintain influence at TSG, despite recent low-profile status.
Rosen observes events with trepidation
A conflict over Rosen's dismissal erupted between the club and the fan scene. At the Bundesliga opener against Holstein Kiel, supporters in the south stand, along with their ultra-groups, boycotted the team's policies, withholding their support.
"Despite surveying the current events with a tinge of worry, I wish Rino (coach Pellegrino Matarazzo), the team, and countless fantastic employees the best in facing their challenges," Rosen shared. Having served the Kraichgauer since 2010 and later being appointed Mainz's managing director of sports a year ago, Rosen served TSG well.
Election of new president on Monday
A new president will be chosen at TSG's member assembly on Monday. Current contender is Sinsheim's mayor, Jörg Albrecht, while an ultra-scene figure eyes the position.
Although removed from Hoffenheim, Rosen still holds the club in high regard. "I owe another thanks to Dietmar Hopp for giving me the opportunity to lead a Bundesliga club at a young age." The tumultuous management change at Hoffenheim, leading to Rosen's exit, sparked tension between the club and supporters, with boycotts during the Bundesliga opener against Holstein Kiel.
Relevant Insights:
In 2024, Alexander Rosen unexpectedly departed TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, facing significant fan protests and criticism from the football community. Reasons weren't explicitly disclosed, with the club citing subpar development, weak scouting, stalled transfers, and low attendance. Rosen's decade-long contributions, including Europa League qualification, received little recognition.
Following Rosen's exit, the club invested 76 million euros in new players, including high-profile signings. Despite financial input, results were disappointing, with the team in 15th place, showcasing a poor defensive record and inconsistent attacks. Players like Kramaric and Geiger criticized the club's transfer strategy. Tension escalated amidst poor performance and mismanaged team.
The departure of Rosen and subsequent changes in club leadership were seen as significant factors contributing to the team's struggles. Replacing Rosen with Andreas Schicker as sports director didn't bring the desired results, further fueling fan-club discord. The situation remains tense, with the club confronting a critical period in their season.
