Kwasniok surprises with Heintz nomination: flexibility is key!

Kwasniok surprises with Heintz nomination: flexibility is key!

Exciting times for 1. FC Köln! With the signing of Lukas Kwasniok as the new head coach for the 2025-26 season, the club has embarked on an exciting journey. The 43-year-old, who was most recently successful at SC Paderborn 07, brings a breath of fresh air to FC. Kwasniok signed a contract until June 30, 2028 and is valued both for his team development skills and for developing young players. Managing director Thomas Kessler sees him as a key player on the path to a successful future. “1. FC Köln is an incredible club and a great opportunity,” said Kwasniok enthusiastically about his signing, which is characterized by his successful coaching career, which even led him to the DFB Cup semi-finals.

Another look at Kwasniok's approach comes in the final games of the season. FC Cologne has already collected seven points in the first three games. They recently drew 3-3 with VfL Wolfsburg. Ísak Jóhannesson scored the equalizer in stoppage time, after an even game in which both Maximilian Arnold and Jakub Kamiński provided exciting moments. Despite the positive points, Kwasniok expressed critical views on the style of play. His goal remains clear: staying in the league.

Flexible setup and positive atmosphere

Lukas Kwasniok doesn't have a permanent starting place in mind and his flexibility in the lineup provides fresh impetus. The nomination of Dominique Heintz for the starting eleven came as a surprise as the player had not been taken into account in six previous games. After a conversation with Kwasniok after lunch, Heintz, who has not yet been able to collect any playing minutes this season, was happy about his opportunity and knew that he could also impress with good training performances. “This nomination sends a clear signal to all players,” emphasizes Kwasniok, who also rewarded Denis Huseinbasic, Linton Maina and Luca Waldschmidt with playing time. The aim is for everyone in the squad to feel part of the success and the cohesion in the dressing room, even among players who were not used, remains consistently positive.

The squad width has increased significantly thanks to eleven new signings in the summer. Kwasniok follows the motto “Work hard, be smart” and at the same time demands intensity, performance and focus from his team. FC Köln have already scored eight goals so far this season, and remarkably five of these goals have come from new players. The stoppage time also proved to be a lucky charm: six of the goals came in the last few minutes, which shows the tireless effort of the players.

With this fresh approach and a clear strategy, the new coach wants to lead FC Cologne to new heights. Fans can look forward to seeing how the team develops under Kwasniok's leadership. The signs are good and it seems as if 1. FC Köln is on the right track!

For further information you can read the articles on the website of Come On FC, FC.de and Bundesliga.com be read.