Werder Bremen Stands by Clemens Fritz Amid Bundesliga Struggles

SV Werder Bremen has decided to retain Clemens Fritz as their sports director despite a challenging Bundesliga season. The club narrowly avoided relegation, finishing 15th with just 32 points. The supervisory board showed unanimous support for Fritz with a 9-0 vote, praising his management qualities during the crisis and his efforts to improve club coordination and processes throughout the season.

However, the board admitted to significant mistakes in sports planning and transfer policy. Notably, the signing of striker Victor Boniface was labeled a transfer flop, and the reliance on loan players—seven out of eight new signings—was criticized. The hoped-for impact from the summer coaching change to Horst Steffen did not materialize as expected.

Looking forward, Werder Bremen aims for stability, consistent performance, and offensive strength next season. Part of their strategy includes integrating young talent more thoroughly into the Bundesliga squad. Financially, the club is generating revenue to support future plans, highlighted by the sale of goalkeeper Mio Backhaus to SC Freiburg for over ten million euros. Further sales involving players like Jens Stage and defender Karim Coulibaly are also anticipated.

Fritz remains focused on addressing the club's challenges while building a stronger, more competitive team for the upcoming season.