Köln to delay permanent coach call as Wagner impresses Kessler | OneFootball

Köln will not rush the appointment of a permanent coach, with Thomas Kessler not ruling out continuing with Wagner beyond this season.

The Billy Goats lost their final home game to relegation-threatened Heidenheim, and sections of the 50,000-seat stadium booed at full time. Since René Wagner replaced Lukas Kwasniok as interim until season’s end, they have taken six points from six matches.

"At the end of the day, he (Wagner) took over in a situation that was rough for us," said Kessler as he thanked the 37-year-old for securing Köln’s league status. "He stabilized our team as it’s now very quiet. It's a success that we stay in Bundesliga."

The remarks came in a flash interview with DAZN. Captain Marwin Schwäbe also credited Wagner’s impact, noting strong relations with the squad and a clear, effective structure.

Pressed on the long-term post after the club’s last home fixture, Kessler said he would not name the 2026/27 coach before next week’s trip to champions Bayern. "I have commented very extensively on the topic this week. Then, we'll sit down and analyse the whole season. But it is not only about the coaching issue. I feel absolutely no pressure about the timing of the decision."

Source: BuLi News