Manuel Baum extends deal to 2028, unveils tactical blueprint for Augsburg’s Bundesliga push
FC Augsburg announced on Tuesday that head coach Manuel Baum has signed a new contract running until 2028, cementing his long‑term role after steering the team to a ninth‑place finish last season – the club’s best league result since 2015. The extension provides the Fuggerstädter with stability ahead of the 2024‑25 campaign and signals the board’s confidence in Baum’s project.
Baum admitted the decision required careful thought, saying, “I needed a week to think about what I want for the club and for myself.” He added that returning to his previous development role would have disrupted the continuity the squad has built together, a factor he now cites as the cornerstone of Augsburg’s emerging culture.
Addressing the supporters’ “image change” protests at the FanKurve last December, Baum urged fans to demand “ten percent more than their best,” emphasizing the need for a united dressing‑room where every player understands his purpose.
Tactically, Baum promised to shape the side around the strengths of its core players rather than imposing a rigid system. Swiss midfielder Fabian Rieder will stay in a central‑midfield role that the coach described as “the best position of his career,” providing the creativity and balance the team requires.
Up front, the partnership of Michael Gregoritsch and Rodrigo Ribeiro will remain intact. “Ribeiro brings technical quality and a different way of moving the ball, while Gregoritsch offers experience and a physical presence,” Baum explained, noting that their contrasting profiles give Augsburg flexibility without confusing individual roles.
Versatility will still be encouraged, but within clear primary and secondary positions. Baum highlighted Anton Kade as an example, pointing out how the former Basel wing‑back has been deployed higher up the pitch to increase his scoring chances. “Every player should have a clear ‘1A’ position and, where appropriate, a ‘1B’ alternative,” he warned, cautioning against endless tactical permutations that can lead to confusion.
Looking ahead, Baum believes Augsburg can challenge for European spots if the squad maintains its cohesion and adapts intelligently to opponents. He also hinted that national team boss Jürgen Klopp should keep an eye on several Augsburg talents, underscoring the growing reputation of the club under his guidance.