In a surprising turn of events, Carsten Jancker, once a prolific striker for FC Bayern Munich, has returned to the coaching scene, taking the helm at Austria Klagenfurt. The 50-year-old replaces former 1860 Munich striker Peter Pacult, who parted ways with the club after a disappointing series of matches. Jancker's appointment comes during a challenging phase for the team, which has struggled significantly this season.
Jancker expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "I have the necessary respect for this task, but I am also really looking forward to it and am proud that the management of Austria Klagenfurt has placed their trust in me during this challenging phase." His confidence is palpable as he prepares to lead a team that has not won in its last five outings, suffering four losses in that stretch.
Currently, Austria Klagenfurt finds itself in a precarious position within the Bundesliga, having secured only six victories in 28 matches this season. With just four games remaining, the club is desperate to avoid relegation. Jancker aims to reinvigorate the squad, focusing on restoring the players' self-confidence and belief in their abilities. "For me and my colleagues in the coaching team, it is primarily about giving the boys the necessary self-confidence and belief in their own strength. They have already proven that they have the quality. We need to approach the game with passion and courage. Then we will succeed," Jancker explained.
Interestingly, Jancker's salary will not be borne directly by Austria Klagenfurt but will instead be covered by the team's main sponsor, Helmut Kaltenegger. Kaltenegger, who played a significant role in Jancker's hiring, confirmed, "It was my wish and suggestion that Carsten be appointed—but it was not a condition. The club contacted me and asked if Carsten was immediately available." This arrangement allows the club to minimize financial strain while securing a coach with a notable pedigree.
Jancker’s first match in charge will be an away game against Grazer AK on Friday, May 2, 2025, where he will be looking to make an immediate impact. His first training session was held on Monday, April 28, 2025, and he is keen to implement his strategies quickly as the team prepares for a critical end to the season.
Before taking this role, Jancker was coaching DSV Leoben but left in January 2025 due to financial difficulties faced by the club. His coaching career has primarily been in lower leagues, where he successfully led SV Horn to promotion and guided DSV Leoben from the fourth-class Landesliga to the second league.
As a player, Jancker enjoyed a stellar career, winning multiple titles with FC Bayern, including the Bundesliga championship, the Champions League, and the Club World Cup. He also made 33 appearances for the German national team, showcasing his talents on the international stage.
Jancker’s appointment comes at a time when Austria Klagenfurt is in dire need of a turnaround. The team is currently second to last in the qualification group, a relegation round, and must fight to stay in the league. The pressure is on, especially after the previous coach, Pacult, was dismissed following a humiliating 6-0 defeat to LASK, which left the team without a win for five consecutive matches.
"We have pressed the reset button and need to detach ourselves from everything that distracts us, focusing on the next task ahead," Jancker stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. He confidently noted, "We have four final matches ahead of us—and we are looking forward to that." This statement reflects his determination to instill a winning mentality in the squad as they prepare for the crucial matches ahead.
Jancker has drawn inspiration from several prominent coaches throughout his playing career, including Ottmar Hitzfeld and Giovanni Trapattoni. He acknowledged, "I have learned something from all of them, but I will go my own way." His ambition is clear; he is eager to prove himself in the Austrian Bundesliga and hopes that success with Klagenfurt could pave the way for even greater opportunities in the future.
As the club navigates through this tumultuous period, Jancker’s experience and leadership will be put to the test. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can turn the tide and help Austria Klagenfurt secure their place in the league. The upcoming matches will be pivotal, and with Jancker at the helm, there’s a renewed sense of hope among supporters.
With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, Carsten Jancker steps into a role that could define his coaching career. Will he be able to revive the fortunes of Austria Klagenfurt and steer them away from the relegation zone? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Jancker is ready to embrace the challenge ahead.
