Wolfgang Bartosch takes over interim positions in the ÖFB: a fresh start?

Wolfgang Bartosch takes over interim positions in the ÖFB: a fresh start?

After the recently taken presidium meeting, Wolfgang Bartosch took on the role of the Interim President of the Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) on Friday. The 66-year-old lawyer, who comes from Styria, commented in an interview about the challenges that lie in front of him and his plans in this leading position.

Bartosch is faced with resistance right at the beginning of his term. Tirol's head of state Josef Geisler has published an expert opinion that questions the legality of his choice, while Gerhard Götschhofer from Upper Austria threatens with legal steps. Bartosch said: "I knew that I had to expect resistance. However, it motivates me that I feel great support from many in the Presidium." With regard to the threatened lawsuit by Götschhofer, the represident remains calm and recognizes the questions about legitimation, since it received only three out of twelve votes.

diplomacy in the Presidium

When asked how he will deal with his critics, Bartosch emphasizes the desire for a fresh start in the Presidium. "It's not that easy, but I'm striving for a closed collaboration," he added. He recognizes the challenges within the committee and sees the path only with a qualified majority.

A central goal of his presidency is to implement a structural reform. This reform, which is to form the foundation of his term in office, is expected to be completed at the end of January. Your elaboration is crucial for the future orientation of the ÖFB. Bartosch plans to start the search for a new CEO after the approval of the reform in March, which will then come into office with a view to the general meeting on May 18th.

In terms of the current situation of the operational management level of the ÖFB, Bartosch announced that the managing director Bernhard Neuhold and Secretary General Thomas Hollerer will remain on duty by the end of May. Questions about possible changes in the leadership were clearly denied: "If there is a breach of trust, I will take appropriate measures.

Communication with Team boss Rangnick

Another topic of his term will be the collaboration with team boss Ralf Rangnick. Bartosch would like to speak openly about their statements about Neuhold and Hollerer with Rangnick and the players. He emphasizes that the discussion of personal affairs should be carried out to enable a professional discussion about the principles of the national team.

On the remark that Rangnick had said before that he had no relationship with Bartosch's predecessor Klaus Mitterdorfer, Bartosch replied: "I would like a trusting and open relationship." This should be the basis for productive cooperation in the future. Bartosch currently sees no need for changes in the Treaty of Rangnick, which should guarantee stability in team leadership.

For more information about Wolfgang Bartosch's views and the upcoming challenges as ÖFB President, there are detailed reporting on www.kicker.at .