Kroesche bids tearful farewell to Eintracht Frankfurt members
The departing sporting director explained his exit at the club's general meeting. Axel Hellmann takes over on an interim basis and signals a new transfer approach.
Markus Kroesche said goodbye to Eintracht Frankfurt's members Monday night at the club's general meeting in the city's Jahrhunderthalle. The 46-year-old, who is leaving after just over five years as sporting director, fought back tears during his speech and received a standing ovation. "Normally I'm a calm, rather cold type. But the last few days have been very emotional for me," he said, according to public broadcaster hessenschau. He added that he would "always remain an Eintracht man."
Kroesche said he could no longer give the club his best: "You need power, and I no longer had it 100 percent." President Mathias Beck credited him with the 2022 Europa League title and the club's run to the Champions League. Kroesche did not discuss his future; Italian media have linked him with AC Milan.
Axel Hellmann, who is overseeing the sporting side on an interim basis, said Frankfurt would focus its transfer strategy more on the domestic market, relying on young players, academy talent and potential Germany internationals. Coach Adi Huetter and assistant Christian Peintinger were made life members. Christoph Spycher is reported to be the leading candidate to succeed Kroesche, though nothing has been confirmed.