Particle.news
Get it on Google Play
Download on the App Store
33 ARTICLES
·
4h ago

FC St. Pauli Replace Alexander Blessin With Marcel Rapp

Club officials said differing views on squad building and a lack of '100‑percent' shared conviction prompted the split, with Rapp brought in to reset tactics and rebuild the team for a quick promotion push.

Image
Image
St. Pauli-Präsident Oke Göttlich und Sportchef Andreas Bornemann (r.) präsentieren den neuen Trainer Marcel Rapp.
Image

Overview

  • The club confirmed on Thursday that it had relieved Alexander Blessin of his duties after an internal season analysis found the coach and club did not share full conviction about the sporting direction.
  • On Friday FC St. Pauli officially appointed Marcel Rapp as head coach; Rapp led Holstein Kiel to promotion in 2024 and is known for possession-based tactics and player development.
  • Reports say the core disagreement was sporting: Blessin sought a reconfigured, promotion-capable squad after reviewing the season while the club demanded an unequivocal commitment to its plan.
  • St. Pauli expect a significant roster overhaul under Rapp and media reports link centre‑back Hauke Wahl with a move to VfL Wolfsburg, signaling active transfer business ahead.
  • The change hands the rebuilding task to Rapp in a tightly contested 2. Bundesliga promotion race, increasing pressure to make swift tactical and personnel choices that will shape the club’s short-term future.