📉 Hero to zero in 3 weeks: Bundesliga coach fighting for his job

The news discusses the rapid changes in the Bundesliga, where three weeks can significantly alter a team's fortunes, as exemplified by FC Augsburg's current situation under coach Sandro Wagner. Initially signed as a hopeful figure and media asset, Wagner now faces early sporting challenges despite his positive public image.

Wagner has successfully enhanced Augsburg's media presence, delivering sharp quotes and extensive press coverage that have made the team a topic of conversation beyond its local region, which is notable for the typically quiet Bavarian Swabia area. His ability to generate headlines is highlighted as a strength, though this does not translate to points on the table.

Sportingly, the season started with a surprising 3-1 victory over SC Freiburg, but this result is described as a fluke, with Expected Goals data suggesting Freiburg should have won. Augsburg benefited from opponent errors and efficient chance conversion. Subsequently, a 2-3 loss to Bayern Munich revealed Augsburg's inferiority, as they appeared outclassed, and Wagner's post-match comment claiming equal quality with Bayern was seen as bold but misguided.

The situation worsened with a 1-2 loss to St. Pauli and a particularly dismal 1-4 defeat to Mainz, where Augsburg faced fan whistles and Wagner admitted that nearly all players, except the goalkeeper, could have been substituted due to poor performance. This series of results has deepened the team's sporting crisis, overshadowing Wagner's media successes.