News blog about 1. FC Cologne
Before the end of his career: FC asked about the former DFB star
Updated May 9, 2026 – 9:01 p.mReading time: 23 minutes
1. FC Köln is fighting to stay in the Bundesliga. In the news blog on t-online you will find all the important news about the Geißbockheim.
1. FC Köln asked about Süle
On Friday evening, in the 3-2 win against Eintracht Frankfurt, Niklas Süle played for Borussia Dortmund one last time in their home Signal Iduna Park. During the week, the central defender announced that he wanted to end his career after this season – at just 30 years old.
Süle, whose BVB contract expires on June 30, apparently had a few options for a future on the football field. In addition to several clubs from the US MLS, according to “Bild”, the 1. FC Cologne briefly inquired about Süle. However, the discussions did not become concrete. A commitment would probably have failed due to financial circumstances – but Süle ended the speculation anyway by ending his career.
René Wagner wants to remain head coach of 1. FC Köln, but denied concrete talks with the club on Friday. The current interim coach doesn’t want to “lose focus” before the end of the season, the 37-year-old explained on Friday before the home game against 1. FC Heidenheim. Nevertheless, he is “in very close contact” with sports director Thomas Kessler.
For a few days now, everything has been indicating that Wagner will remain head coach of the Billy Goats beyond the season. He announced on Friday after almost seven weeks in office. “I think that the atmosphere in our staff has also improved. We tried to get even closer together and bring everyone along,” reported Wagner. “Everyone should feel like they’re needed. We’ve done that.”
Regarding his continued employment, the Dresden native explained: “If I am the one who is allowed to continue working here, that will continue to be my focus in the job.” It’s about “that others perform well, because as a result I also perform well.” After the end of the Bundesliga season, Wagner will reportedly be officially confirmed as head coach.
