FC Bayern must let a coach from its youth academy move on. Can Ünal is leaving the campus to join the professional ranks. The former U16 head coach is joining Hannover 96, where he will serve as assistant coach to Sandro Wagner.
For Ünal, the move represents the next step in his coaching career. Wagner was introduced on Monday as the second-division club’s new head coach, succeeding Christian Titz. As he begins his new chapter in Hannover, the former Bayern striker will now also be relying on support from Munich.
Bayern has already responded to Ünal’s departure. There will be no external hire for the U16 team. Instead, the record champions are promoting Maximilian Welzmüller, who previously served as the team’s assistant coach.
Bayern views Ünal’s move as a mark of distinction
At the Campus, his departure is not viewed solely as a loss. Rather, those in charge see it as confirmation of their own work in coach development.
Bernhard Seonbuchner, Head of Player/Coach Development and Transition at FC Bayern, emphasizes: “At the Campus, we want to continuously develop not only our talents but also our coaches. We’re very pleased that Can Ünal has been given the opportunity to work as a coach in professional soccer under Sandro, and this is also a testament to our academy.”
The move to Hannover allows Ünal to work permanently on the coaching staff of a professional club for the first time. At the same time, he’ll be working with Wagner, a head coach who knows FC Bayern inside and out.
Welzmüller Promoted to U16 Head Coach
When it comes to succession, Bayern consistently relies on an internal solution. Welzmüller is already familiar with the team from his previous role and is now moving up from assistant to head coach.
Seonbuchner also sees this decision as part of the Campus strategy: “With the promotion of Maxi Welzmüller to head coach, we are consistently continuing on the path of fostering and supporting our coaching talent. We wish Can all the best for his future career and Maxi every success in his new role with us.”
In doing so, Bayern is using this departure as an opportunity for its next internal promotion.