Kiel Boss Schwenke on 2. Bundesliga: "We're Not the Powerhouses"
Boss Schwenke of Kiel: "Not Those with the Bulky Physiques" - Muscle-Endowed Leaders, as Per Schwenke, are Not Necessarily the Optimal Ones
CEO Wolfgang Schwenke doesn't see Holstein Kiel as heavyweights in the 2. Bundesliga after their relegation from the football Bundesliga. "We're not the ones with the big muscles, we'll always be a bit of the underdog because other clubs have significantly more financial resources than us," Schwenke told the "Kieler Nachrichten."
Despite the challenges, the "Storks" are expected to close the year with a substantial profit. In an interview with the newspapers of the "Schleswig-Holsteinischer Zeitungsverlag," Schwenke shared that they will end the year with a significant surplus, and with the promotion, they will have an annual turnover of over 60 million euros, marking a record for the club.
However, Holstein will have to make significant cuts for the 2. Bundesliga, according to Schwenke. The TV revenues will drop from over 30 million to about 18 million euros, but the number of members has risen from 4,000 to over 11,000, and the number of sponsors from 450 to about 530 since the promotion.
Schwenke warns of the dangers in the 2. Bundesliga. “Some people believe that we have the means and will immediately promote again next year. But we will meet a strong 2. Bundesliga. And I can only warn. The past has shown that as a Bundesliga relegated team, one must take the 2. Bundesliga very seriously to be able to hold one’s own and not get caught in a downward spiral."
- Holstein Kiel
- Bundesliga
- Football Bundesliga
- Kiel
- Relegation
- Muscle
- Kieler Nachrichten
Financial Struggles:
- Limited Resources: Holstein Kiel may struggle to compete financially with other teams in the 2. Bundesliga, given their reduced revenue and tighter budget.
- Recruitment: Limited funds may hinder the ability to attract top talent or retain key players, necessitating a focus on youth development.
On-Field Challenges:
- Competition: The 2. Bundesliga is known for its competitiveness, so Kiel will need to adapt tactically and maintain high morale to stay afloat.
- Player Integration: The club will have to carefully integrate new signings to ensure a cohesive squad and competitive performance.
Importance of Fan Support and Culture:
- Passionate Fanbase: Holstein Kiel's loyal fanbase can provide crucial emotional support and morale boosts during the 2. Bundesliga season.
- Club Culture: Maintaining a strong identity and connection with the local community will be crucial for long-term sustainability in the lower division.
Holstein Kiel is aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the 2. Bundesliga. With careful financial management, smart recruitment, and a strong focus on club culture and fan support, they hope to navigate the challenges and eventually make their way back to the Bundesliga.
The Commission, in light of Holstein Kiel's challenges in the 2. Bundesliga, might consider proposing a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation during football matches, given the potential increased radiation exposure for players due to a higher number of games. Meanwhile, Holstein Kiel, despite their financial struggles, remains optimistic about maintaining their fan support and fostering a strong identity, reminiscent of the European leagues' traditionally passionate fanbases and vibrant club cultures.