He showed everyone

Many lacked the belief that he could now survive in modern football at the level of the Bundesliga. And that was a scam.

Because Magath knew exactly what was important. He gave a clear focus to a seemingly lifeless side he took over in 17th place. He gave her emotions, cohesion and passion. He didn’t rely on tactical tricks or a complex game system. He wanted this team to show basic virtues. And he knew what an important part of a football game he can see changing in a short space of time: the set pieces.

All of that worked out. Hertha showed life from the first game under Magath. It was seldom pretty what the team in blue and white put on the pitch, but it was often effective. Six of the eleven goals before the relegation under Magath came from corners, free kicks and penalties. His work could be felt.

What was just as important: the experienced coach kept calm. When Hertha clearly lost to Union in the derby, he remained calm. When Hertha was saved after beating VfB Stuttgart 2-0, he curbed the euphoria of the fans. And when Hertha was relegated to many after the 1-0 loss in the first leg of the relegation against Hamburger SV, he seized the opportunity and pushed the pressure north. “HSV has something to lose now,” he said. And was right.

In the second leg, the big final of the relegation, he trusted his players, above all Kevin-Prince Boateng. The leader of this Hertha was allowed to set up the team, Magath gave his go. The players fought, ran, gave everything. And they scored two goals – by set piece, of course. They showed everything Magath wanted from them. His plan worked.

Magath showed it to everyone. Everyone who underestimated and smiled at him. Everyone who didn’t think he would be able to stay up with Hertha. Me too.