Sky Germany and Bild report that VfL Wolfsburg have decided to relieve head coach Paul Simonis of his duties following Friday’s 2-1 defeat to Werder Bremen. The result, which saw Bremen overturn the game with two late goals, leaves the club sitting 14th in the Bundesliga table.
Under-19 coach Daniel Bauer will step in on an interim basis while the club searches for a new permanent manager. Among those being considered are Tim Walter, formerly in charge of Hamburg and Hull City, and Urs Fischer, who previously managed Union Berlin.
Simonis becomes the third Bundesliga coach to lose his job this season, following the earlier dismissals of Erik ten Hag at Bayer Leverkusen and Gerardo Seoane at Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Interim solution and search for successor
Bauer’s temporary promotion aims to stabilize the team during a turbulent spell. Wolfsburg’s management is expected to make a swift decision on Simonis’ long-term replacement, with both Walter and Fischer seen as serious contenders.
The club’s leadership reportedly hopes a new appointment will help reverse the poor run of form that has derailed their season.
Growing pressure behind the scenes
Tensions are also rising within the Wolfsburg hierarchy. Sporting director Sebastian Schindzielorz and managing director of sport Peter Christensen are both under scrutiny for recent transfer and spending decisions.
Despite significant financial investment in recent seasons, the team’s performances have failed to match expectations, leading to growing dissatisfaction from within and outside the club.
The shake-up at Wolfsburg could therefore extend beyond the coaching position, as questions over the club’s direction continue to mount.
