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Cologne (dpa) - Friedhelm Funkel tackles the rescue mission at 1. FC Cologne with great enthusiasm and a lot of confidence.
«The task is not easy, but not impossible.
The team’s performance on Sunday makes me optimistic.
I'm really looking forward to it and I know what's in store for me, ”said the new head coach of 1. FC Köln on Monday at his presentation in the Geißbockheim.
The Rhenish club, threatened with relegation, announced the commitment of the experienced coach in the morning after Markus Gisdol was released on Sunday evening after the 2: 3 defeat against FSV Mainz 05.
FC sports director Horst Heldt confirmed that the first contact with Funkel took place about a month ago in the run-up to the game against Borussia Dortmund.
"We are convinced that he can give the input we need," said Heldt, who of course also has to look for a coach for the new season.
Funkel will only look after the team in the last six games of the season.
"We communicated that clearly and I will hopefully finish my job successfully," said the 67-year-old.
The resignation from the planned end of his career at the beginning of 2020 is also related to the corona pandemic.
«I couldn't enjoy my new freedom that much.
In the fall, the idea of going back to work took off.
I felt this desire to do something again, ”said the new FC coach, explaining his commitment.
Funkel will conduct his first training session with the new team on Tuesday at 11.00 a.m., the first game will be the Rhenish derby at Bayer Leverkusen next Saturday (6.30 p.m.).
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