Sandro Wagner “grateful” after first Bundesliga win with Augsburg

An emotional Sandro Wagner was full of gratitude after beating Freiburg 3–1 in his first Bundesliga game as Augsburg coach.

Sandro Wagner got off to a flying start as Augsburg coach, leading his side to a 3-1 away win at Freiburg in his first Bundesliga game in charge.

The 37-year-old, who made 180 Bundesliga appearances as a player for clubs including Bayern Munich and Hertha BSC, praised his squad for their commitment and adaptability.

“I’m already a very grateful person, and after a day like this, I’m even more grateful,” Wagner told Sky after the match.

“I already knew that it would be emotional on the sidelines. But the pressure and demands on you are really intense,” he added.

“In the circle with the players after the match, nothing came to mind except to say thank you,” he said.

Augsburg’s gameplan was executed to perfection, as Die Fuggerstädter absorbed pressure and hit Freiburg on the counter.

“We knew Freiburg struggle against a team in a deep block,” Wagner said with a smile. 

“Why shouldn’t we take advantage if the opponent gives us something?”

The former Bayern striker also expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Jess Thorup.

“Mr. Thorup left me a very stable team. It’s not easy for players who have been here a while to adjust to something new after five, six, seven years of a similar style of play. I’m grateful they are on board and open to my ideas.”