KSC reorganizes sports management, appoints Eggimann as new director

The Karlsruher SC has announced a restructuring of its sports management. Mario Eggimann, who previously served as the vice president of the second-division football club, will take over the vacant position as the sports director, according to a statement from the club. The former sports director, Sebastian Freis, who officially held the title of head of professionals, has been released from his duties effective immediately. Freis’s contract, previously signed as a former KSC striker, will officially end on August 31 of this year.

Long Search Ends with Eggimann’s Appointment

The appointment of the 44-year-old Eggimann, who led KSC back to the Bundesliga in 2007 as captain, concludes a lengthy search for the position. The club had parted ways with former sports director Oliver Kreuzer over two years ago, leaving the role vacant since then. Recently, Olaf Rebbe was in discussions with KSC but ultimately joined the top-tier club Holstein Kiel.

KSC President Holger Siegmund-Schultze expressed satisfaction in the announcement, stating, “We are very pleased that we could secure Mario Eggimann for this crucial position. Throughout the process, which Mario Eggimann led for us, it became clear that he is the best solution.” Eggimann will start immediately with the squad planning for the upcoming season.

Freis’s Departure Not Unexpected

The departure of Freis, who turns 40 on Wednesday and has been responsible for the sports management since August 2023, comes as no surprise. There has been consistent criticism regarding some of the transfer decisions made during his tenure.

Particularly, the sale of top scorer Budu Siwsiwadse to Bundesliga club 1. FC Heidenheim during the winter break did not sit well with several fans. After initially sitting in second place at the halfway point of the season, KSC has since slipped to mid-table and now currently ranks ninth, significantly diminishing their chances for promotion.

Freis expressed his disappointment in the club’s announcement, stating, “The disappointment that my role here is coming to an end will linger with me for some time. However, I will always carry KSC in my heart.” He was part of the promotion team of 2007 alongside head coach Christian Eichner and Eggimann.