1. FC Köln have signed Friedhelm Funkel as the club’s new head coach. The experienced head coach, who was previously head coach between February 2002 and October 2003, will return to Geißbockheim until the end of the season.

“Friedhelm doesn’t just have a lot of experience but is also someone who can be completely trusted in such situations. He will lead our team until the end of the season, with the goal of staying up. He has the sovereignty that is now required to give a new impulse at this decisive stage, to stay calm and to prepare our team for the upcoming and important six games,” said FC Managing Director, Horst Heldt.

“I have followed FC intensively in the past few weeks and had a good talk with Horst. The team have recently put in good performances but have not been rewarded. When working with the boys, now it is about getting the necessary points with the same effort so that we stay in the league. I am convinced that we can do it,” said new FC head coach, Friedhelm Funkel.

Funkel replaces Markus Gisdol who was sacked by the Bundesliga club on Sunday after their defeat against 1. FSV Mainz 05.

(1. FC Köln)