Changes on the TSG board

"Following internal talks in January, it became clear that there were different perceptions of Hansi Flick’s role at the club," explained TSG’s chief financial backer Dietmar Hopp. "As a small club playing in a professional environment, we rely on making the best possible use of all our opportunities, which requires those in senior management positions to feel comfortable, so that they can work efficiently," Hopp continued.

"Dietmar Hopp and I have had lots of private discussions recently. We agreed to keep it confidential and let it all sink in first before meeting once more. Now we have come to the mutual agreement that we will end our cooperation," Hansi Flick explained.

"We would have liked to keep Hansi Flick on in some advisory function," Hopp added. Flick turned down this offer. "Hansi gave a detailed explanation of his motives, which of course we respect. We regret this development as much as Hansi. Despite that, we believe the decision that has now been made to be the right one," says Hopp.

Both Dietmar Hopp and Hansi Flick emphasise that reports about a power struggle within TSG’s management, or rejected structural plans, “are purely fictional and without basis."

The sporting director position will not be immediately filled. “The board members will analyse the situation in the coming weeks, together with the two managing directors Frank Briel and Dr. Peter Görlich, as well as the directors, and re-distribute the responsibilities among the executive committee," explained Hopp.