Steffen Baumgart has no intention of leaving FC Köln

Speaking in an interview with regional outlet the Express, FC Köln head coach Steffen Baumgart stated that he no longer wishes to negotiate a contract extension, but has no intention of leaving the Bundesliga club.

“We are no longer negotiating,” said Baumgart. “If the club wants me to stay, it will go on for another year. I won’t say no,” before adding: “I’m a coach in Köln, I’m still thinking in the short term.”

Baumgart signed an extension in June until 2024 and at the time, Köln managing director Christian Keller stated that the short-term extension was inspired by Freiburg’s business model.

However, Baumgart added that nothing would stand in the way of another extension beyond 2024: “If everyone says that the work fits, we simply extend it. I certainly have no intention of leaving.”

As a result, talks with Keller about another extension, as of now, are not taking place. Baumgart also confirmed also confirmed that if they were to extend their cooperation, it would also be another year, until 2025, and that what’s in his contract now, would also be in his next one.

Baumgart guided FC Köln into seventh last season and therefore, a place in this season’s UEFA Europa Conference League. The Billy Goats were eliminated in the group stages whilst they currently sit 13th in the Bundesliga after 15 games, but are just eight points behind Borussia Dortmund (6th).

FC Köln resume their Bundesliga campaign against Werder Bremen on January 21.

GGFN | Daniel Pinder

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