Christian Ilzer is the new TSG Hoffenheim head coach

"I know and appreciate Christian through our collaboration and am convinced that he is the coach who ideally fits the idea I have in mind for TSG Hoffenheim," said Andreas Schicker, managing director for sport,, on the appointment of the new head coach, adding: "His style of play stands for clarity and high intensity. That fits in perfectly with TSG's DNA. He has proven in recent years that he is able to play attractive football with his teams and also develop individual players."

Christian Ilzer says of his move to TSG: "Several things were decisive for my decision. Firstly, Hoffenheim are a very exciting club with great potential, as is the team itself. In addition, TSG also plays on the international stage and, last but not least, I have the special opportunity to work with a trusted person like Andreas Schicker again. After a turbulent few days, I'm really looking forward to the new challenge and can't wait to get to know the players and staff."

Ilzer has celebrated enormous successes during his time at Sturm Graz. The Austrian Cup win in 2023 was followed last season by the double of league and cup in Austria and, as a result, qualification for the league phase of the UEFA Champions League. The historic Austrian club have again been one of the top teams in the league this season and currently sit atop the table.

Ilzer will be presented at a press conference on Monday (18 November). He will then lead his first session as TSG coach. Christian Ilzer will then sit in the TSG Hoffenheim dugout for the first time in the home match against RB Leipzig (23 November, 15:30 CET).