Thioune takes swipe before derby against HSV boss Polzin: ‘Friendship over’ | OneFootball

Before the Nordderby between Werder Bremen and HSV, Daniel Thioune is drawing clear lines. At least temporarily, he is also stepping back from the close bond with his former companion Merlin Polzin.

The relationship between the two coaches is actually marked by great mutual respect. Both had already worked together at VfL Osnabrück and moved to the Volkspark together in 2020. Just a few weeks ago, Polzin had emphasized: “I owe Daniel an incredible amount.”

That makes Thioune’s words from Bremen all the more remarkable. Thioune made it unmistakably clear (via Deichstube): “At the weekend, we are not friends.” Although the Werder coach added with a wink that the “friendly relationship” would only suffer in exceptional cases, his core message remained clear. In the relegation battle, after all, far more is at stake than personal sympathies. “We simply have to get points,” Thioune demanded, underlining the enormous importance of the match.

Photo: Getty Images

Former HSV coach makes it clear: “I’m Green-White”

The situation is indeed extremely tense. After the 1–3 defeat in Cologne, Werder, in 15th place, are under major pressure, with the gap to the relegation playoff spot standing at just three points. At the same time, the direct clash offers the chance to draw level with HSV on points. “This derby has taken on a completely different character,” Thioune explained with regard to the league table.

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For the 51-year-old, the clash is also emotionally charged. Once HSV coach himself, he is now pursuing clear goals with Bremen. “I am committed to my colors. I’m Green-White,” he made clear. His past in Hamburg now plays only a minor role.

Instead, the focus is fully on sporting success — and also a measure of revenge. Thioune lost the last meeting between the two longtime companions quite heavily, 1–4, as Fortuna Düsseldorf coach. “The Nordderby is a whole different level,” he said now. “At the end of the day, I take it personally too.” The peak of his fighting words came at the end: “Friendship goodbye.” At least for 90 minutes.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.