FC Koln sack Kwasniok as relegation fears deepen

Former Koln manager Lukas Kwasniok

FC Koln have parted ways with ⁠head coach Lukas Kwasniok, the Bundesliga club confirmed on Sunday, marking ‌the 10th major coaching change for ‌the three-time German champions in ‌10 years.

The decision follows a 3-3 ‌draw at home against Rhine derby ‌rivals Borussia Moenchengladbach on Saturday, a result that leaves Koln two ‌points clear of St Pauli ⁠in ‌the relegation playoff spot with only seven ​matches remaining in the season.

Kwasniok was appointed last June ​to lead the promoted side, but a recent dip in form ⁠ultimately cost ​the Polish-born manager his job. Since the departure of long-term coach Peter Stoger in 2017, the club ‌has struggled to find continuity, with only Steffen Baumgart lasting more than two seasons in the dugout during that period.

Koln's most recent form

"Despite the passionate and stable performances, there was a clear downward trend in our development to be seen. We have ‌picked up too few points – ​that is the reality," managing ‌director Thomas Kessler said in a press release.

Assistant Rene Wagner has been placed in charge for the club's upcoming fixtures on ⁠an interim ⁠basis.