Schalke are one of the better supported teams in the country, so perhaps he can transform their fortunes. It is a bold change of direction for that club, who this season conceded fewer goals than any other team in the Bundesliga. If anyone can get them scoring goals, then it is Magath.

Wolfsburg will do well to hold onto the likes of Dzeko, Grafite and Misimovic this summer but I for one would like to see the group of players remain on their current trajectory for another year. As is so often the case, a big-money move could stunt the development of such exciting talent. Being introduced to Champions League football together could well benefit each player more than a move to England/Italy with big billing. Also, with so many plaudits inevitably going to come the way of their attacking players, the contribution of their defence should also be highlighted. Expensive acquisitions of Zaccardo and Barzagli have offered an effective platform from which to build further up the pitch.

I only hope that the loss of Magath does not lead to further losses for Wolfsburg, although I fear an exodous might be impending. It will be interesting to see how the coach and his players alike will fair next season, along whichever avenues they wish to take.

———-

Note to the team:

Do you require any further contributors? I enjoy writing and have a broad interest in football across Europe and South America, particularly in the spread of the game across Eastern Europe with the rise of Shaktar Donetsk and Zenit etc. I’m currently coming to the end of my degree, and will have some more spare time on my hands to work on other interests. I’d be delighted to provide a few articles for the site.