VfL Wolfsburg travel to SC Paderborn today for the second leg of their Bundesliga relegation playoff, with the club’s future – and potentially that of manager Dieter Hecking – hanging in the balance. The match, scheduled for 20:30 local time, will determine whether Wolfsburg avoid their first ever relegation from the top flight.
According to multiple media reports, regardless of the outcome in Paderborn, Wolfsburg are considering a restructuring of Hecking’s role within the club. Possibilities include a position as managing director or a consultancy role. Names of potential replacements are already circulating, with Dietmar Kühbauer, recently achieving a domestic double with Austrian side Linzer ASK, mentioned as a possible candidate.
Hecking’s current contract is set to expire, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his position. A successful outcome in Paderborn, securing Bundesliga survival for a team that spent much of the season in the relegation zone, would be a significant achievement, potentially even exceeding the value of his 2015 DFB-Pokal win with the club.
In a surprisingly relaxed preparation for such a high-stakes match, Hecking revealed he spent the day before the game at a local garden show and opening the swimming pool season with his family. “I can only recommend it, it’s a great location,” he said, demonstrating a calm demeanor despite the pressure. This approach appears to have fostered a positive atmosphere within the squad, with Hecking prioritizing team morale over intensive tactical adjustments.
Following a goalless draw in the first leg, Hecking acknowledged the team’s performance wasn’t their best but refrained from heavy criticism. He indicated adjustments would be made for the return match, though he remained tight-lipped on specifics. The 61-year-old, who began his playing career with the predecessor club to SC Paderborn, is determined to secure victory, stating, “We will throw everything we have into winning this game.”
The match represents a return to the city where Hecking’s professional career began in 1983, and could potentially mark a high point in his career if Wolfsburg successfully avoid relegation.
