Kicker Report: Darmstadt hire Wiesbaden's Fernie as new sporting director

German journalist Thiemo Müller of Germany’s preeminent footballing publication reports that SV Darmstadt 98 have selected English footballing functionary Paul Fernie to serve as their new sporting director. 

Without a sporting director since parting company Carsten Wehlmann just prior to the start of the most recent January transfer window, SV Darmstadt 98 have reportedly found the man they wish to task with rebuilding their roster. Darmstadt effectively lost their hopes of surviving in the German top flight with a loss to relegation rivals FSV Mainz 05 yesterday. Darmstadt correspondent Thiemo Müller of Germany’s Kicker Magazine reports that an Englishman will assume responsibility for shaping the team’s upcoming season in the second division.

Thirty-six-year-old Paul Fernie, despite his young age, brings with him an extensive set of credentials. When an active professional career eluded him, Fernie embarked upon a coaching career at the age of 20. He worked in the systems of English sides Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, and Blackburn Rovers. He moved to German football as the head of SV Wehen Wiesbaden’s scouting department in 2016, ultimately helping the Hessen-based side earn promotion to the 2. Bundesliga in 2019.

Fernie took two years to accrue experience in the RB system between 2019 and 2021 as the head scout for the New York Red Bulls before returning to Wiesbaden to work as sporting director. He again led the team to a 2. Bundesliga promotion last year. Broadcast cameras caught Fernie in attendance during Darmstadt’s defeat to neighboring Mainz yesterday. The Englishman appears set for an introduction with the Lilies shortly. Fernie makes the switch from one Hessen club south of Frankfurt to another.