By Roberto Lamprecht and Paul Gorgas
Hertha continues to shave employees! Squad planner Dirk Dufner (55), assistant Johannes Waigand and chief scout Babacar Wane (58) have surprisingly been on leave since Monday.
Managing Director Thomas Herrich (58) explains: “These decisions were made as part of our restructuring, reorganization and economic consolidation measures and this process will continue to accompany us in some areas. This does not only apply to the HR department.”
What’s behind it?
With the trio, Hertha gets rid of another confidant of ex-manager Fredi Bobic (51). All were responsible for assembling the squad, which is once again fighting relegation.
► Does Hertha save money like this?
Not at first! The trio has contracts until June 30, 2024. Until then, they collect the full salary.
However, Hertha could save on possible bonus payments from next season. Example: Dufner has a base salary estimated at 500,000 euros/year, but can still earn a small six-figure amount if he achieves squad planning goals in good time.
According to BILD information, Dufner, Wane and Waigand all have the option of extending their contracts by two years in the summer of 2024.
Means: If Hertha agrees early with everyone on a severance payment, you can save.
It still won’t be cheap: If you add Sebastian Zelichowski (40) and Thomas Westphal (50), who have already been fired, Hertha must expect more than two million euros in severance payments for the five Bobic confidants.
► Who fills in the vacant posts?
Herrich when asked by BILD: “These positions will (…) not be filled. We catch that internally with the existing staff.”
Sports director Benjamin Weber (42) and Zecke Neuendorf (director of the academy/licensed player area) should take over. It is possible that the previously demoted chief scout Sven Kretschmer (52) will return to the old position.
And the 777 bosses Johannes Spors (40) and Don Dransfield (40) should have a say in the next transfers anyway.