Viktoria Cologne: Records in the crisis - future despite budget cuts!

Viktoria Cologne: Records in the crisis - future despite budget cuts!

In the world of football, a lot is happening at Viktoria Cologne. The club currently has to cope with a shrinking budget and is faced with a change. Managing Director Axel Freisewinkel nevertheless looks optimistically into the future. Despite the financial challenges, he reports of increased revenue and a record in the past season, which was able to shine with an impressive score and the victory in the association cup.

The past season was characterized by climbing rooms, which, however, could not be traced in the second half of the season. "We have lost the necessary games against our direct competitors," explains Freisewinkel. A victory against Saarbrücken could have led to the relegation. Nevertheless, Eric Bock The season with a grade of eight or nine. contradicts. "The past few months were really successful; we played in the promotion race for a long time."

financial challenges and short -term planning

with a budget that was shortened by more than 20 percent last summer, the association relies on sustainable financial planning. A further reduction of five to ten percent is expected for the coming season. These savings are necessary to ensure a healthy balance between performance and financial stability. "We are actively working on improving our economic situation," says Freisewinkel. The sale of players Zoumana Keita to Anderlecht is part of this strategy.

Currently the association has 22 players under contract; Many of them were the wish players of those responsible. The departures of expensive players such as Moritz Fritz and Patrick Koronkiewicz also relieve the budget. The number of spectators also reached a new record level in the past season: over 4,600 spectators per game. The aim is to crack the 5000 spectators brand in the coming season.

Future -oriented measures

To further support this development, Viktoria Cologne has also achieved records in the sponsorship area. Expansion of the VIP area is already being planned because the demand is enormous. In addition, there are renovations in the sports park on the agenda: the fan shop is enlarged, new standing space areas and renovated player cabins are to be created, and a roof for the standing grandstand is being discussed. However, short -term solutions for this are not yet in sight.

Those responsible have also started discussions with potential investors, with the success of last season easier to negotiate. An investor is to be found within two years, preferably from the region. "Club life will benefit from local investments," emphasizes Freisewinkel.

The association has already signed eight entrances for the coming season and is planning further reinforcements, especially for offensive positions. Bock emphasizes that many players consciously chose Viktoria Cologne, despite tempting financial offers from other clubs. "There is something," Freisewinkel is optimistic that the talented new additions and the return to the successful style of play will set the course for a happy and successful season 2025/26.

with Marian Wilhelm as a new coach on the sidelines, a fresh wind is also in the sports park. Freisewinkel is certain that the change in the squad will not be exceptionally large and hopes to quickly collect 45 points in order to keep up in the lower third of the financially strong clubs. Valentin Schäfer and Stephan Küsters' squad planning will be put to the test again, but the hope of an exciting season remains。