Sturm Graz coach Christian Ilzer ‘high’ on Hoffenheim’s list | OneFootball

Hoffenheim aim to move quick to appoint a successor to Pellegrino Matarazzo after the American coach was dismissed on Monday.

Speaking to kicker, TSG sporting director Andreas Schicker confirmed that Sturm Graz head coach Christian Ilzer is high on the Bundesliga club’s list.

“I want it to happen as quickly as possible,” said Schicker, who hopes to appoint a new coach during the international break. “Chris is high on our list.”

Initial talks between both parties have taken place in recent days with a further round of discussions planned. As further reported by Sky Germany, Hoffenheim would have to pay the Austrian champions a compensation fee between €1.5m and €3m.

In what’s a developing story, Sturm Graz cancelled Wednesday’s press conference at short notice, but it reportedly doesn’t coincide with Hoffenheim’s interest in Ilzer.

It would reunite Schicker with Ilzer, should the appointment be confirmed. The former worked as Sturm Graz’ sporting director between May 2020 and October 2024.

Ilzer would also arrive at Hoffenheim with some pedigree, having won the Austrian Cup back-to-back between 2022 and 2024, as well as the Austrian Bundesliga last season, Sturm Graz’ first championship.

GGFN | Daniel Pinder