In a surprising turn of events, SC Paderborn has announced that head coach Lukas Kwasniok will part ways with the club at the end of the current season. This decision, made public on Tuesday evening, April 15, 2025, comes as Paderborn remains firmly in the race for promotion to the Bundesliga, sitting just two points behind the promotion/relegation spot.
Kwasniok, who took the reins at Paderborn in the summer of 2021, has been a pivotal figure for the club, leading them to solid finishes in the 2. Bundesliga, including sixth and seventh place in the previous seasons. Under his guidance, the team has consistently garnered over 50 points each season, showcasing his ability to foster a competitive squad.
The announcement confirmed that both parties agreed to the separation in mutual respect and understanding, aiming to provide clarity for the future. In the official club statement, Paderborn's sporting director Benjamin Weber expressed gratitude for Kwasniok’s contributions, stating, "Together, we have achieved a lot in recent years. Lukas's expertise and dedication have greatly contributed to the positive results of the seasons. I am very pleased that we have reached a mutual agreement that gives all parties the necessary planning security."
Kwasniok himself reflected on his time at the club, saying, "The SCP07 and all the people associated with it have grown dear to my heart over the past four years. The club has given me the opportunity to prove myself in the 2. Bundesliga for the first time and has supported me at every turn. However, my full focus is now on the remaining five games, where we want to make our dream a reality."
As the season approaches its climax, Paderborn's next match is crucial. They are scheduled to face Nuremberg on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 1 PM. This encounter could be pivotal in their pursuit of a top-three finish, which would secure them a chance for promotion.
The decision to part ways has sparked speculation about Kwasniok’s future, with several Bundesliga clubs reportedly interested in his services. Notably, TSG Hoffenheim has emerged as a potential suitor should they part ways with their current coach, Christian Ilzer. Kwasniok has also been linked with VfB Stuttgart, VfL Wolfsburg, and even Schalke 04.
In light of this announcement, the search for Kwasniok’s successor at Paderborn is likely already underway. Reports suggest that Thomas Wöhrle, who previously managed SSV Ulm, and Timo Schultz, the former coach of FC St. Pauli, are among the candidates being considered.
As the club navigates this transition, Kwasniok’s focus remains on the present, prioritizing the final matches of the season. With the stakes high and the promotion race tightly contested, every point will be critical in the coming weeks.
To summarize, the parting of ways between Lukas Kwasniok and SC Paderborn marks a significant moment in the club's history. With both sides emphasizing mutual respect in their decision, the focus now shifts to the remaining matches and the potential future for both the coach and the club.
