Hertha Berlin coach Markus Babbel confirmed he will leave the club but he still hopes to see out his contract to the end of the season.
Speaking after Hertha’s 1-1 draw at Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga on Saturday, Babbel told Sky television that the timing of his departure is a matter for the club to decide.
German media reported that former Eintracht Frankfurt coach Michael Skibbe has been lined up to take over as his replacement in January Hertha sporting director Michael Preetz told Sky that Babbel informed him on Tuesday he would not be extending his contract. Preetz would not comment on the possible appointment of Skibbe.
Babbel, however, said he informed Preetz of his decision during the international break in November.
“In my opinion I’ve given plenty of notice,” Babbel said. “Anyone who knows me knows that when I say something, that’s how it is. When someone has another opinion, then maybe he wasn’t listening properly.”
The 39-year-old coach said he didn’t understand why there was a commotion.
“I’m an employee of the club. I’ve stuck with what I was told—that we stay calm and still. The issue has gained momentum until it’s unbelievably difficult for the players and for also for me. And it’s actually unnecessary, as notice was given early enough.”
Roman Hubnik scored in injury time to rescue the 1-1 draw for Hertha, and Babbel said he wanted to finish what he began with his players.
“It’s a pity and I don’t understand the turmoil in Berlin,” he said. “I’d be delighted to stay with the team until the end, until the contract runs out. Everything else is just speculation that I know nothing about. … You could see again today that the team is willing to pull through with us to the end. Ultimately I can’t influence that.”
Germany daily Bild reported that Preetz met Skibbe on Monday and agreed a two and a half year deal for the 46-year-old to take over on January 1, after Wednesday’s German Cup game against Kaiserslautern.
The dapd news agency said contract details still had to be agreed and that Hertha would make no comment.
Former Bayern Munich and Liverpool defender Babbel led Hertha to Bundesliga promotion by winning the second division in his first season in charge last year. Babbel previously coached Stuttgart.
Skibbe is currently in charge of Turkish side Eskisehirspor. He was sacked by Frankfurt in March after a dismal run in the Bundesliga. His replacement, Christoph Daum, was unable to prevent the club’s relegation. Skibbe also previously
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