Bundesliga January 2026 Transfer Primers | FC Augsburg

FC Augsburg is undergoing a rebuilding phase after a disappointing season under Sandro Wagner's "sexy rebrand," which led to a 15th-place finish, far below the predicted 11th. Manuel Baum has been appointed as the new trainer to lead this short-term project, with his success heavily dependent on the newly reorganized front office and sporting director Benni Weber's handling of the upcoming transfer window.

Despite the poor season results, the summer transfer window is viewed positively overall. Key signings like Han-Noah Massengo, Robin Fellhauer, and Anton Kade have performed well, with Fellhauer and Kade adding toughness in midfield. Fabian Rieder has also been successful, aside from a few poor games. However, striker Elias Saad has been a disappointment, though patience is advised for him and Ismäel Gharbi. Young players like Noahkhai Banks and Mert Kömür need more time to develop.

Financially, the club is in strong shape, with a club-owned stadium generating significant revenue, membership soaring above 30,000, and a net annual gain of €18.1 million. However, the permanent signing of Cedric Zesiger for €4 million is considered a misstep, though it was unpredictable given his strong previous season. In contrast, defender Chrislain Matsima has been a successful investment.

The club plans to move on from underperforming or surplus players like Maximilian Bauer, Arne Maier, Felix Meiser, Franz Bleicher, Mahmut Kücüksahin, Mads Pedersen, and Philip Tietz. Younger players such as Oliver Sorg and Aiman Dardari, who can contribute, will likely stay to aid in the relegation battle. The estimated summer transfer balance shows a deficit of €10.2 million.