Roger Schmidt stays at Benfica
DFB receives rejection from national coach candidate
September 15, 2023, 7:19 p.m
The German Football Association would have to transfer 30 million euros to Benfica Lisbon in order to be able to sign Roger Schmidt as the new national coach. However, the 56-year-old now says of his own accord: he feels very comfortable in Portugal. Schmidt seems fundamentally interested.
The German Football Association is urgently looking for a new national coach for the men’s national team, which should provide as much enthusiasm as possible at the home European Championship next summer. A demanding task for the cash-strapped association, which was at least able to celebrate another victory under one-game national coach Rudi Völler in the 2-1 test against France. After four defeats and one draw under Hansi Flick – the first national coach in the DFB’s more than 100-year history to be fired.
Much of the successor discussion is currently focused on Julian Nagelsmann. He had already followed Flick at FC Bayern, but was also given an early leave of absence and should basically be able to imagine the job. However, the DFB is also keeping a close eye on Roger Schmidt, as “Kicker” reports. He has obviously enjoyed great recognition from sports director Völler since their time together at Bayer Leverkusen, which is why the association is pursuing his path “intensively”. However: Schmidt currently has no interest in leaving Benfica Lisbon and taking over the German footballers.
“My ambition is to be at Benfica until 2026. That’s why I’ve signed a new contract here.” The 56-year-old had extended his contract with the Portuguese champions long-term just a few weeks ago. Schmidt doesn’t rule out a job as a national coach in principle – but that’s not an issue at the moment. “As you know me and my past as a coach, I am completely focused on the here and now,” said the Benfica coach. “I’m very happy. I love my players, I love my staff. My contract extension was a clear decision for Benfica.”
Schmidt’s exit clause would also be a not insignificant hurdle in the event of a possible commitment. According to consistent reports, this is 30 million euros. According to circles in the DFB task force responsible for finding a national coach, money should not play a decisive role despite the association’s major financial problems. After his interlude on the sidelines until the upcoming international trip to the USA, Völler wanted to present a new strong man. The DFB team will face the United States in Hartford on October 14th and Mexico in Philadelphia four days later.