Beier also fires agent over sexist remarks

Reports that Beier had officially cut ties with Barthel began emerging earlier in the week. The hi-flying talent, unlike Schade, didn’t wish to make his choice a public matter. TSG 1899 Hoffenheim trainer Pellegrino Matarazzo nevertheless confirmed that Beier had fired Barthel at his Thursday pre-match presser and expressed support for the 21-year-old.

“We as a club and I as a coach embody values,” Matarazzo stated on Thursday, “Maxi has been influenced and made a decision at a young young age, which has certainly kept him busy for a few days.”

“I see him as very liberated and happy at the moment,” Matarazzo added, “which is a sign that it was the right decision. We support and accompany the players in their choice. He is going his own way.”