Werder Bremen’s Daniel Thioune on relegation battle, criticism and ambition

Daniel Thioune (51) has had a mixed start to life as Werder Bremen head coach but with three wins in his last four Bundesliga games, Horst Steffen’s replacement is closer to securing the Green-Whites’ league status.

Speaking exclusively to Sky Germany, Thioune discussed the relegation battle, with Bremen now seven points clear of 17th-placed Wolfsburg after their Matchday 27 victory over the Wolves, while he also addressed the criticism after his tenure started with three successive defeats.

Thioune on the importance of fun in the relegation battle…

“A certain balance is important. Fun is part of training. You have to incorporate challenging elements, work tactically and in terms of content, but the fun shouldn’t be neglected. They might sometimes be difficult for the public to understand but I believe those who enjoy their work and their task are ultimately more successful.”

Thioune on his criticism…

“That’s part of the game to some extent. Of course, we lost three games. Naturally, the voices get louder but we’re currently in somewhat of a more successful phase. I’m not letting myself get carried away by it, I’m trying to focus on the essentials and I’m convinced of what I’m doing.”

Thioune on his ambitions…

“When I attended the football coaching course ten years ago, my aim was to go as far as possible and set myself ambitious goals […] I want to achieve the maximum.”

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