Hoffenheim head coach Christian Ilzer signs contract extension
Hoffenheim have rewarded Christian Ilzer with an unspecified long-term contract extension after an exceptional 2025/26 saw the Sinsheim club secure European football for the upcoming campaign.
The Austrian has transformed Hoffenheim since replacing Pellegrino Matarazzo in November 2024, turning them from relegation candidates into European participants.
He did so by achieving the club’s second-best points tally ever in the Bundesliga with 61 in 2025/26, enough to secure a place in next season’s UEFA Europa League.
“The past season has shown that we are on the right track and that with consistent work, we can achieve a great deal together,” said Ilzer, who masterminded wins over Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen in 2025/26.
“We want to continue on this successful path and maintain this true Hoffenheim character. I’m already looking forward to the new challenges in the upcoming season, including our return to Europe.”
Sporting director Andreas Schicker added: “Christian Ilzer has done outstanding work and taken our team to a new level. Chris stands for a clear idea of football, high intensity and a modern leadership culture. He brings great quality, passion and expertise.
“He and his team have transformed Hoffenheim into a top-six club in Germany, while simultaneously developing numerous talents and generating market value. Therefore, we are delighted to continue our partnership for the long term.”
After recently extending the contract of Andrej Kramarić, Hoffenheim moved quickly to tie Ilzer down to a new deal after the 48-year-old guided the club to their best finish since Julian Nagelsmann secured third in 2017/18.
