FC Köln boss Rene Wagner vows to silence doubts ahead of Gladbach derby

1. FC Köln have confirmed that 38‑year‑old Rene Wagner, who took over as interim after Lukas Kwasniok’s dismissal, is now the club’s permanent head coach. Wagner used his first press conference to acknowledge the scepticism surrounding his appointment and to outline the expectations he faces.

2. The Cologne‑based coach said he understands the “concern that it might not work and the uncertainty about my person”, stressing that he must earn the trust of supporters and the board. “This trust is something I have to build as a young coach, and I am fully aware of the responsibility I carry,” he told reporters.

3. Wagner highlighted the club’s recent form – a promising opening‑day win over TSG Hoffenheim followed by two defeats and a draw that have left Köln sitting 13th in the Bundesliga. “Our task is to win games,” he asserted, adding that criticism from outside is inevitable but manageable.

4. He admitted that his résumé does not include a long list of top‑flight matches, noting, “I don’t have 200 Bundesliga games and I may not get 15 chances, but I will do everything with my team every day to make the most of the opportunities we have.”

5. While acknowledging that the club’s support is present, Wagner warned that the “credit is not unlimited”. He stressed that development must be balanced with immediate results, as the team will be judged on its ability to secure points.

6. Looking ahead, Wagner emphasized the importance of the upcoming derby against Borussia Mönchengladbach on 11 October, describing it as a match that “needs no explanation”. He hinted at a special preparation for the English‑born forwards Mikey Moore and Jahmai Simpson‑Pusey, promising to show them what the derby means.

7. The Cologne side will also have to adapt to a new opponent, as Gladbach will return from the international break under a new manager. Wagner said his training sessions are already focused on “different scenarios” to counter the tactical changes expected from the visitors.

8. With the derby looming, Wagner’s message to fans is clear: the club is aware of the doubts, but it will fight to turn them into belief on the pitch.