September: Daniel Baier bids farewell
Review of the year 2023
First Team
30.12.2023, 09:07
Another year is coming to an end: 365 days of both highs and lows, but above all a host of memorable moments for FC Augsburg. It’s time once more to reflect on the past twelve months. In part nine of FCA’s review of the year, we look back on September.
FCA were once again busy shortly before the end of the transfer window, strengthening their squad with the signings of Kevin Mbabu (on loan from Fulham FC) and Japhet Tanganga (on loan from Tottenham Hotspur).
There was a change of organisational structure in the sporting department. Stefan Reuter moved from his position as managing director into an advisory role at the club in order to ensure this transition. In this position, he’s in regular contact with FC Augsburg’s sporting and business leadership and he provides them with support.
FC Augsburg took on VfL Bochum on matchday 3. Although FCA went ahead twice through goals from Dion Beljo and Ermedin Demirović, the game ended 2-2 and the points were shared. All members and fans had the exclusive opportunity to celebrate with FCA’s players and coaching staff for the first time at the club's tent at the Augsburg Plärrer.
“Ciao Capitano”
It was then time for the first international break of the season. However, there was still action taking place at the WWK ARENA as FCA’s record appearance holder and long-term captain Daniel Baier appeared on the pitch for FCA for the last time. The emotional testimonial game was framed as a clash between the “Europa League heroes & friends” and the “promotion heroes & friends”, with Baier playing a half for each side. It was a special day for all FCA fans and the first testimonial game since Helmut Haller, with “DB10” also failing to hold back his tears at the end of the game.
The Fuggerstädter travelled to Leipzig following the international break. However, FCA were already 3-0 down at half time there. Despite a markedly improved performance, there were no more goals in the second half. 1. FSV Mainz 05 were the visitors for Augsburg’s next home game. Enrico Maaßen’s side kept their heads up during a 30 minute period with a man disadvantage, turning a one-goal deficit around and securing a 2-1 win. Captain Demirović had a big role to play in FCA’s first win of the season with his brace.
FCA players visit local primary and special schools
September ended with an event off the pitch: The entire FCA squad split up as they went to meet first graders in over 50 primary and special schools in the city and district. The players as well as the coaching staff surprised the children with a FCA gym bag.
