Ilzer dreams big: Hoffenheim should soon become champions!

Ilzer dreams big: Hoffenheim should soon become champions!

Christian Ilzer, the new coach of TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, has announced ambitious goals for the club. He starts his venture in the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim currently in 14th place after taking over the coaching position in 15th place in the table. In an interview he explains that he plans to bring the team back into international business in three years and thus play for the German championship in five years. “Goals and visions are important,” emphasizes Ilzer, as he compares the challenges of being a coach to the difficulties of steering an ocean liner that he wants to steer in the right direction. His motto is: “We have to work together towards a goal,” says Ilzer, adding that unpleasant decisions also need to be made in order to make progress.

Ilzer, who previously ended RB Salzburg's championship run in Austria and led Sturm Graz to the national title, was brought to TSG as a preferred candidate by sports director Andreas Schicker. He left Sturm Graz in the current season, although participation in the Champions League was possible. Now he is turning his attention to the challenge of leading Hoffenheim back to its former strength. According to sports betting providers, Hoffenheim will face RB Leipzig on April 5, 2025; The tip for this game is a draw with odds of 4.70.

The challenges of a coach change

Coach changes are not uncommon in football, especially when clubs are dissatisfied with the current situation. Scientific studies, including an analysis by Sebastian Zart and Arne Güllich, show that coaching changes can in many cases lead to a short-term increase in performance. This also applies to Bundesliga clubs, which often experience an improvement in playing performance after a change of coach. Ilzer's takeover could be seen as part of this strategy, with the aim of significantly strengthening the team and preparing it for its intended goals.

The analysis of almost 4,000 games shows that the positive effects of a coaching change in all leagues examined can last up to 16 match days after the change. This effectiveness shows that the elimination of performance-reducing factors from the previous trainer often plays a key role. According to Zart, the dissatisfaction within the team, which has negatively affected performance, could decrease after a change, which could be crucial for Ilzer to bring a breath of fresh air to Hoffenheim.

When asked about the upcoming games, TSG Hoffenheim not only expects the game against RB Leipzig, but also faces FC Augsburg on April 4, 2025. The forecasts show an exciting and challenging program that could be crucial for the further development of the club.