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Fox rivalry escalates: Kretzschmar and Siewert spared from conflict

German champion parts ways with sports director and coach, leaving a successor to take over, in what comes as an unfortunate timing from a sports perspective.

Power feud among foxes has singled out Kretzschmar and Siewert, who have been granted exceptions...
Power feud among foxes has singled out Kretzschmar and Siewert, who have been granted exceptions from conflicts within their group.

Fox rivalry escalates: Kretzschmar and Siewert spared from conflict

Füchse Berlin, the reigning German handball champions, are set to embark on a new chapter as they prepare to face SC Magdeburg in a crucial title race match on Saturday. This highly-anticipated encounter marks the debut of new coach and sports director, Nicolej Krickau, who will take the reins starting July 1, 2026.

Krickau, a 38-year-old Dane, has been handed a three-year contract with the Berliners. His arrival comes after the departure of Stefan Kretzschmar, who played a pivotal role in shaping the team's success and bringing world-class players such as Gidsel to Berlin.

Gidsel, a significant player for Füchse Berlin, has expressed that this match is an opportunity for the team to make a statement and take a step in the title race. He also highlighted Kretzschmar's personality as a crucial factor in his decision to join the team.

Max Darj, the captain of Füchse Berlin, stated that their focus is on playing handball in the top duel with Magdeburg. The league has been turned upside down this season, with Füchse Berlin and Magdeburg emerging as the top teams, replacing Kiel and Flensburg.

The match between Füchse Berlin and SC Magdeburg is a rematch of the Champions League final. Magdeburg won the Champions League final, while Füchse Berlin won the Bundesliga title last season. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for supremacy.

The match will be broadcasted on Dyn and ARD at 3:40 PM. Füchse Berlin will have to maintain the international top level of the squad without the star power of Kretzschmar. Krickau, in his dual role as coach and sports director, will be instrumental in guiding the team through this transition.

In a farewell statement, Kretzschmar expressed pride in what has been achieved and gratitude towards the team, coaching staff, fans, employees, and shareholders. Paul Drux, a former national player, will serve as a link between the team, coach, and management from July 1, 2026.

As Füchse Berlin embarks on this new era, the focus remains on maintaining the team's success and securing another Bundesliga title. The match against SC Magdeburg on Saturday will be a crucial stepping stone in this journey.

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