This archive report was first published on 9 June 2020.
On March 7, 2020, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim played Schalke 04 at the Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
However, the focus was not on the match, but on the future of the team. Hoffenheim have sacked coach Alfred Schreuder four games before the end of the season over differences in the way they believe the team should develop.
Schreuder, who had a contract to 2022, had arrived at the start of the season from Ajax Amsterdam. His assistant and brother Dick Schreuder will also leave the club.
According to Alexander Rosen, the sports director, the decision was made due to 'different opinions in important issues of detail.' He stated, 'In important issues of detail we had different opinions so that the collaboration past the season end made no sense.'
Despite being in seventh place on 43 points and battling for a Europa League place next season, Hoffenheim have decided to part ways with Schreuder. Other coaches from within the club will steer the side through the remaining games.
Schreuder expressed his regret over the development, stating, 'Unfortunately we could not agree on a common path for the future of the team. I regret this development but it is not unusual to have different opinions in your professional life.'
