Former Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has made a triumphant return to the Bundesliga as he assumes the role of head coach at Wolfsburg. The 56-year-old Austrian steps in to replace Niko Kovac at the Volkswagen Arena following a 15-month hiatus from managerial duties.
Hasenhuttl brings a wealth of experience to Wolfsburg, having previously led RB Leipzig to a remarkable second-place finish in the Bundesliga in 2017. His tenure with Southampton followed, where he made a notable impact during his time at St Mary’s Stadium.
Kovac’s departure from Wolfsburg came after a disappointing 3-1 defeat at home to Augsburg, leaving the club languishing in 14th place in the Bundesliga standings. Reflecting on his departure, Kovac expressed regret at the team’s inability to reverse their fortunes despite glimpses of promise.
Wolfsburg’s precarious position in the league table, with just a six-point cushion ahead of 16th-placed Mainz, underscores the urgency for a turnaround in form. The battle to avoid relegation looms large, and Hasenhuttl’s appointment signals the club’s commitment to revitalizing their campaign.