Baum: “Continue on the path we’re on and be successful"
Special-edition shirt to debut against Köln
First Team
26.02.2026, 16:00
FC Augsburg welcome 1. FC Köln to the WWK ARENA on Friday evening, in the opening game of Bundesliga matchday 24. FCA are looking to extend their seven-match unbeaten run at home, in what will be a milestone encounter for the club.
“Playing under the floodlights at home, in great weather – we’re really looking forward to tomorrow night,” said head coach Manuel Baum at the pre-match press conference. Not only can his side extend their unbeaten run at home to eight straight games, but they have a chance to do so in their 500th Bundesliga match. Should they do so, it would also mark the club’s 150th win in the division. “We want to continue on the path we’re on and be successful. Each and every one of is us proud to be part of it,” said Baum.
The 3-2 win in Wolfsburg last weekend had a positive impact on the team’s overall spirit. However, Baum cautioned against becoming too complacent. “The important thing is that we stay ambitious. We’re glad to be in good form at the minute, but we’re not satisfied yet. We’re hungry for more and want to give our fans something to celebrate!”
The head coach is expecting a different game against Köln, compared to last weekend’s. “Köln have a strong mentality, play with a lot of intensity and are strong in transition. You never know exactly what to expect, which makes it tough for any team."
FCA to wear special-edition 'Fugger' shirt
Baum will have nearly a full squad to choose from this Friday. With the exception of Jeffrey Gouweleuw and Chrislain Matsima, who are both working their way back from long-term injuries, the head coach has everyone else available. “We have several options in every position,” he said. “This depth, with the quality and different strengths it brings, is what defines us.”
FCA are also set to debut their special-edition ‘Fugger’ shirt against the Billy Goats. “The shirt turned out great. I think it’s fantastic when the club identifies so strongly with the city and its history,” Baum enthused.
