Fox power dynamics: Kretzschmar and Siewert spared from conflict

Füchse Berlin Shake Up Management Ahead of Title Race

German handball champions Füchse Berlin have made a significant change in their management, with Stefan Kretzschmar and Jaron Siewert being dismissed from their roles as sporting director and coach, respectively. The new coach and sporting director for the Berliners is set to be Nicolej Krickau, a 38-year-old Dane.

Krickau will take over from February 5, 2023, and will serve as both coach and sporting director. This appointment comes after Kretzschmar's three-year tenure with the club, during which he significantly developed the team into a top team with his personnel decisions. Kretzschmar played a crucial role in bringing world handball player Gidsel to Berlin, as well as attracting multiple top players, including Lasse Andersson and Tobias Grondahl, due to his personality.

Kretzschmar commented on his departure, expressing that it hurts but creates clarity for all parties involved. Bob Hanning, the club boss of Füchse Berlin, made the decision to part ways with Kretzschmar and Siewert, citing the need for a fresh approach to maintain the international top level of the squad without the star power of Kretzschmar.

Meanwhile, Max Darj, the captain of Füchse Berlin, has emphasized that they have to focus on playing handball in the top duel with Magdeburg. The league has been turned around, with Füchse Berlin and Magdeburg becoming the top teams, alongside Kiel and Flensburg. This upcoming game is an important one in the title race, as both teams are the top contenders for the championship in the current season.

The game between the defending champions Füchse Berlin and the vice-champions Magdeburg will be played on Saturday at 3:40 PM and will be broadcast on Dyn and ARD. The Foxes will have a new link between the team, coach, and management in Paul Drux, a Füchse veteran, who will serve in this role from July 1, 2026.

Interestingly, Magdeburg took revenge in the Champions League final against Füchse Berlin. Krickau, who has been given a three-year contract with the Berliners, will have the opportunity to turn this around and lead Füchse Berlin to victory in their upcoming matches. The previous season, the Füchse's victory in the Bundesliga's second half paved the way for their first championship title.

As Krickau takes the helm, he will be under pressure to maintain the team's performance and continue their successful run in the league. The Foxes will undoubtedly be looking to Krickau to guide them to more victories and potentially another championship title.