What had been rumored for some time has now been confirmed by Paderborn president Thomas Sagel: Augsburg has signed sporting director Benjamin Weber from SCP. His successor is already waiting in the wings.
Despite a worry-free season, Augsburg parted ways with coach Jess Thorup and sporting director Marinko Jurendic in mid-May. After the Fuggerstadt club presented Thorup’s successor in Sandro Wagner around a month ago, they are now close to finalizing the appointment of a new sporting director. As expected, Benjamin Weber is moving from SC Paderborn to FCA. “I can confirm that we have reached an agreement with Augsburg,” said Thomas Sagel, president of the East Westphalian club, at the presentation of new coach Ralf Kettemann.
The 61-year-old then thanked the outgoing sporting director for his “exceptionally good work.” Weber had held this position at the second division club since January 2023. Before joining Paderborn, Weber worked for many years as a video analyst for Thomas Tuchel. He accompanied the 51-year-old during his spells at Mainz, Borussia Dortmund, Paris St. Germain, and Chelsea FC, where he celebrated the Champions League title in 2021.
Lange to succeed Weber in Paderborn
At the same time as the transfer negotiations with Augsburg, Paderborn was searching for Weber’s successor. They found him at their East Westphalian neighbors Verl: Sebastian Lange is considered the SCP’s preferred candidate. Lange, who worked his way up through the ranks at the sports club, already knows Paderborn from his time as a professional. Between 2000 and 2013, the now 37-year-old was the SCP’s goalkeeper.
Like Weber, Lange also has a long-term contract. Paderborn will therefore have to invest at least part of Weber’s transfer fee in his successor immediately. “We expect to have the person on board soon. But that will depend on the negotiations. We are in no rush,” explained Sagel.
