Janko says Schöttel's departure was inevitable, new era

Marc Janko looks back on Schöttel’s departure and emphasizes that it was only a matter of time for him, while the ÖFB simultaneously faces decisive days after the World Cup, in which a new sporting director and a fresh squad are required.

Schöttel’s Departure and Succession

The departure of ÖFB sporting director Peter Schöttel after almost nine years in office did not surprise Marc Janko; he had already foreseen the end of the era. “It was only a matter of time,” said the former team striker, adding that Schöttel’s departure was inevitable. The ÖFB has decisive days ahead, as a new sporting director must take over the role.

Janko describes a broken relationship between Ralf Rangnick and Peter Schöttel and explains that the two could no longer get along properly. “Yes, that was clear,” he stresses, adding that the relationship had not burdened the World Cup preparation.

Sebastian Prödl is seen as a possible successor, and Janko considers him the logical and very good solution. The former team striker highlights that Prödl has already taken on tasks in recent years that went beyond his role as head of the youth national teams. He thinks structurally, has a good network, is conceptually strong, has a clear vision and can make tough decisions.

Janko still sees Ralf Rangnick as the right man, but emphasizes that a generational change is necessary. Veteran players have stepped aside, others will follow, and the quality could easily slip in a difficult phase – that cannot be blamed solely on the team coach.

Squad and Nations League Challenges

On Monday, team coach Ralf Rangnick will present his first squad after the World Cup. Marko Arnautović is missing, Saša Kalajdžić is prospectively important, and Janko does not expect a radical overhaul, but a squad similar to the one at the World Cup. “I am not counting on big surprises,” he says.

Austria must prove itself in the Nations League in four matches: against Israel on 24 September, Kosovo on 27 September, Ireland on 1 October and Kosovo again on 4 October. The games will be decisive for the further development of the team.

David Alaba is currently without a club, but Janko believes a call‑up is a given as long as he is fit. “He trains regularly, and the team coach will not waste a second thinking about not calling him up,” he stresses.