)
Linton Maina at FC Köln gets a new head coach amidst the team's struggle in the Bundesliga.
Harambee Stars prospect Linton Maina will have a new coach to guide his steps in the Bundesliga.
FC Koln has announced the appointment of Timo Schultz as their new head coach, stepping into the role previously held by Steffen Baumgart.
)
10:04 - 03.01.2024
STARS ABROAD Olunga reacts to surpassing Messi, Osimhen in 2023 goal scoring charts
Michael Olunga reacts humbly to surpassing Messi and Osimhen in 2023 goal-scoring, eager for a better 2024.
Schultz's appointment comes at a critical time, with Cologne languishing in 17th place on the league table.
The 46-year-old gaffer brings a wealth of experience to RheinEnergieStadion, having previously managed teams such as St. Pauli and Basel.
)
07:00 - 03.01.2024
STARS ABROAD Kenyan forward helpless as Celtic inflict heavy defeat on St Mirren
Ayunga, who has scored two goals so far this season, came on in the 65th minute but could not get going as the side, who were reduced to 10 men, were thrashed by the Scottish giants.
Schultz task is monumental yet clear – to steer Cologne away from the relegation zone and secure their Bundesliga status.
"The coming days, weeks and months will be a big task for us to ensure we remain in the Bundesliga," said Christian Keller, the managing director of FC Köln. "We’re pleased that Timo Schultz will take charge as head coach for this task going forward."
As a former midfielder with notable clubs like Werder Bremen and St. Pauli, Schultz's transition into coaching began with St. Pauli's reserves in 2011.
)
14:30 - 02.01.2024
STARS ABROAD Michael Olunga beats Lionel Messi & Victor Osimhen to scoring record
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga ended the year with more goals than Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi and African Player of the Year Victor Osimhen
Follow Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more updates.
His coaching career includes stints as an assistant coach and leading the U17s and U19s teams. Schultz's leadership saw St. Pauli reach notable heights in the Bundesliga 2, including a top spot at the halfway stage of the 2021/22 season.
However, following a dip in performance and a subsequent dismissal from St. Pauli, Schultz faced a short, challenging tenure at Basel before being released from his duties.
His appointment at FC Köln marks his first foray into Bundesliga coaching, with a crucial objective of keeping the Billy Goats, as FC Köln is affectionately known, in top-flight football.
)
09:00 - 02.01.2024
STARS ABROAD Clarke Oduor impressive despite Bradford's defeat to Crewe
Oduor continued to play well as an attacking midfielder since his return to the starting line up, although Bradford lost to Crewe.
Schultz exudes confidence about his new role. "I’m looking forward to a very attractive job at this great club," he said in the club’s official statement.
"We’ll do a lot of intense work in the coming weeks to achieve the required results. FC belong in the Bundesliga. We’ll stay up, I 100 percent believe that."
For Linton Maina, this change in leadership could signal a turning point in his season. Despite only scoring one goal and registering an assist in the current campaign, Maina's potential under Schultz's guidance is a focal point for Cologne's survival strategy.
)
12:00 - 31.12.2023
STARS ABROAD Fired up Joseph Okumu revs up preps for Reims new year programme
Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu joined his Reims team-mates as the French club started preparations for their busy 2024 programme following an impressive end to the year
The new coach lead his first training session on Thursday morning, as Cologne prepares for their upcoming home game against newly-promoted Heidenheim on 13 January.
The following week poses another significant challenge, with a match against Borussia Dortmund.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)