Kwasniok Transforms Perception with Tactical Masterclass

Köln’s head coach, Lukas Kwasniok, has swiftly turned his image around from a beleaguered figure criticized for questionable team selections to a celebrated tactical strategist. This transformation followed a crucial comeback victory against Mainz 05, bringing an end to an eight-match winless streak in the league.

A Shift in Support for Kwasniok

The support for Kwasniok among Köln’s management has grown significantly after his strategic substitutions played a pivotal role in the team’s comeback. Sporting director Thomas Kessler highlighted the importance of Kwasniok’s “very calming words” and “three effective substitutions” during halftime, which contributed to Köln’s eventual 2-1 home triumph, as discussed with Sky Germany.

Effective Substitutions Lead the Way

Kwasniok brought in Kristoffer Lund, Tom Krauß, and Ragnar Ache for the second half. Ache’s performance was particularly noteworthy, scoring both of Köln’s goals and showcasing the influence of the other substitutes as well. Meanwhile, Luca Waldschmidt, recently sidelined due to a controversial interview, made a significant impact after entering the game in the 74th minute.

Kwasniok had received criticism for excluding experienced players like Waldschmidt and Florian Kainz due to their public dissent, as well as for fielding less experienced defenders. He emphasized that Said El Mala “was not ready to start.”

Rising Stars Shine Bright

Interestingly, Kwasniok has granted El Mala consecutive starts despite his lackluster performances, effectively validating the coach’s initial decisions. Other players, however, have capitalized on their opportunities. Alessio Castro-Montes, previously seen as a disappointment, has contributed three assists in his two matches since the winter break.

Ragnar Ache, a former striker for Eintracht Frankfurt and 1. FC Kaiserslautern, did not necessarily fit the label of a flop but had not been given extensive playing time. Known for missing easy scoring chances, his two-goal performance marked his first Bundesliga scores since Köln’s last league victory in early November.

Kessler and Kwasniok Commend Ache’s Efforts

“Ragnar didn’t arrive in top condition during the summer,” Kessler remarked to Sky. He added that he had a fruitful conversation with Ache during the winter training camp, recognizing the player’s hard work over the past few months with both the coaching team and his personal trainer.

Kwasniok also pointed out that amidst the media attention surrounding Ache, he has remained dedicated, stating, “Now he has scored a Bundesliga brace for the first time at age 27. It’s fantastic to have both him and Marius Bülter playing together, which hasn’t always been possible.”

Ache Acknowledges Critics and Praises Teammate

In a reflective moment, Ache expressed, “Strikers are judged by their goals, and doubting oneself is part of the process when the ball doesn’t find the net. But now I’m feeling positive. Castro-Montes delivers fantastic crosses, and I always position myself well in the box when he has the ball. I hope to play alongside him more frequently. Overall, I feel great after a hectic week; everything is aligning well now.”