Holstein Kiel and VfL Bochum face automatic relegation from the Bundesliga.
| Hecking will hope for promotion in the first time of asking | Pau Barrena/Getty Images |
Before the final weekend of action, Holstein Kiel and VfL Bochum’s automatic relegations were confirmed as they both fell into home defeats against SC Freiburg and Mainz 05, respectively.
Both clubs vow to return as soon as possible, while thanking their fans for unwavering support throughout the year. Dieter Hecking faced the vociferous fans after the final whistle in the Ruhrstadion. “Unfortunately, we didn’t resolve the situation, and I apologize to you for that,” said the experienced coach.
Meanwhile, Kiel’s sporting director Olaf Rebbe expressed his gratitude to the fans. “It’s a sad day for Holstein Kiel. At the same time, even though it’s difficult today, we need to look forward with optimism,” said Rebbe after the narrow defeat to Freiburg. “Everyone who supports the Storks can still be proud today. We have a really good foundation”.
