Frank Baumann was officially unveiled as SV Werder Bremen’s new sporting director on Friday. Before facing the press he sat down with WERDER.DE to discuss his position.
Frank Baumann was officially unveiled as SV Werder Bremen’s new sporting director on Friday. Before facing the press he sat down with WERDER.DE to discuss his position.
WERDER.DE: Mr. Baumann, on Friday you confirmed that Viktor Skripnik will manage the side next term. How did you reach that decision?
Frank Baumann: "I’m certain that a strong head coach is needed – it’s one of the most important roles in a football club. After speaking with Viktor and his staff it became apparent that he is determined to succeed in this role and is the right man for the job."
WERDER.DE: Why was it necessary to hold these discussions?
Frank Baumann: "I decided that I need to get a full understanding of the situation after taking up my position. Simply confirming his status without having a chat wouldn’t have been the right course of action. His team are self-critical. They’ve already analysed last season and worked out where they need to improve this time around. That impressed me and I’m confident going into the new season."
WERDER.DE: Critics have suggested that a change was needed...
Frank Baumann: "I haven’t heard much of that. I’ve followed Viktor’s time in the hotseat closely. His success in the first season was impressive, moving the club from the bottom of the table to the cusp of the Europa League. The second half of this season was just as good. The results were excellent at times. He’s done enough to deserve my support."
WERDER.DE: Do you feel prepared to take up the position of sporting director?
Frank Baumann: "Yes, I’d say so. The club as a whole are ready for the challenge. I have been in the game for 20 years in various roles. I have worked alongside Klaus Allofs during negotiations and transfers previously, for example. Everyone on the board has different talents and it’s important to bring these together to create a successful environment."
WERDER.DE: Will you be implementing the Werder way again?
Frank Baumann: "I hope so. To me the Werder way means economic stability, good football, exposure within the region and the development of good young footballers. However, the term isn’t something we should get too caught up in as it has sometimes been used in a negative context. The most important thing is that we head in the right direction as a club."
WERDER.DE: What do you want to change in relation to recent years?
Frank Baumann: "That’s not something I want to think about. My priority is the future. I’m a team player and want us all to pull together to achieve the same goals."
The club as a whole is ready for the challengeFrank Baumann
WERDER.DE: But what exactly does that mean?
Frank Baumann: "I think in recent years we started something good things but never quite managed to see things through. As far as I’m concerned we don’t necessarily need to set targets in every field – the important thing is just to improve and develop in general; however, obviously sporting achievement is my main priority."
WERDER.DE: What targets have been set?
Frank Baumann: "It’s not something that has been fully discussed yet. We don’t believe that having big targets looming behind us. However, what is certain is that the images associated with our recent survival should inspire us to perform better and achieve more this season."
WERDER.DE: What plans are in place for the upcoming transfer window?
Frank Baumann: "I’ve used the last few days to address the most important questions. I’d like to thank my colleagues Klaus Filbry, Hubertus Hess-Grunewald, Tim Steidten and numerous others for making this possible. I can’t disclose too many details, obviously, but we want to create a team that the fans can identify with. Transfer fees shouldn’t be judged on their transfer alone – it’s important to look at whether they can fit in here, develop well and help lead the team too success. Players that fit that bill will help the club for sure."
