In a troubling turn of events for the Karlsruher SC, the club finds itself still searching for a "Head of Professionals" two years after the departure of Oliver Kreuzer. The absence of a sporting director is becoming increasingly concerning as the team gears up for the upcoming season. Recently, Olaf Rebbe, who previously held the position of sporting director at Nuremberg, was considered a prime candidate to fill the role. However, Rebbe has officially declined the offer, leaving the club in a precarious position.
Fans of the KSC are vocal about their frustrations regarding the ongoing vacancy. Vernon Ganz, a dedicated supporter, expressed his dismay, stating, "I find it embarrassing that the board has been looking for a successor for Oliver Kreuzer for over a year and has not found one. Is the KSC so unattractive?" His sentiments are echoed by many in the fanbase who are worried about the club's future.
Sascha Hintz, who has supported the team since 1993, believes the board is responsible for the current instability. He commented, "Since Mr. Becker has been Managing Director of Finance, the club's sporting performance has declined. The most important position in a football club has been vacant for two years!" Hintz is particularly critical of the cronyism he perceives within the club, pointing fingers at Sebastian Freis, who he claims is only signing players approved by Becker, regardless of their sporting capabilities.
Hintz argues that the club needs a sporting director who is experienced and well-connected in football. He does not see Dominic Peitz, a former KSC player, as the right fit for the role. Instead, he advocates for someone who can navigate the complexities of the sport effectively. "If nothing happens now, we will be playing for relegation next year," he warns.
Peter Vollmer, another passionate fan, criticized the entire personnel policy of the KSC. He remarked, "You have someone like Sebastian Freis, who apparently just says yes to everything that is put forward. Or Freis can't do his job. The current team lacks quality, and all other statements are eyewash. They are playing players who sat on the bench last season. Almost all are too slow." Vollmer specifically pointed out that a player like Schleusener has lost his scoring touch, having netted only six goals in 26 competitive matches.
Vollmer's concerns extend to the club's future, as he believes that if key players like Wanitzek or Franke wish to play in the Bundesliga next season, they will likely be sold immediately. He fears that the KSC's current personnel policy could lead them back to the Third Division.
Michael Engelhard, a KSC member since 2013, echoed these sentiments, stating, "The KSC has been looking for a sporting director for two years. The rejection from Olaf Rebbe is not surprising. Michael Becker does not want to give any powers to an equivalent sporting director." Engelhard emphasized that the current management has failed to bring in players who can make an immediate impact, noting that other clubs have successfully strengthened their squads while KSC has faltered.
Engelhard also questioned the decision to sell Budu Zivzivadze during the winter break, suggesting that the proceeds from that sale should have been used to sign one or two players capable of helping the team right away. "After two catastrophic transfer phases, it is very difficult to look to the future. We are heading straight for the Third Division next season," he lamented.
Jochem Kemper, another concerned fan, raised critical questions regarding the club's strategy. He noted, "Why did Budu Zivzivadze have to be sold when we were in a promising position for promotion to the Bundesliga? Why were the proceeds not used to sign players who could help immediately?" Kemper's inquiries highlight the frustration among fans regarding the lack of transparency and strategy in the club's decision-making process.
Despite the ongoing search for a sporting director, Kemper believes the remaining management should still be capable of making decisions that benefit the club. However, he remains skeptical about their professionalism and ability to navigate the current crisis. "The KSC needs a competent person for the position of sporting director. Otherwise, I see the downward spiral continuing," he concluded.
The situation at KSC is undeniably dire. With the club's future hanging in the balance, fans are left wondering how the board will address these pressing issues. The lack of leadership in the sporting department is a significant concern, especially as other clubs are already planning for the next season. The KSC must act quickly to secure a qualified sporting director and stabilize the club before it is too late.
