Baumgart reacts to criticism after Rheinderby: “Will be used as scapegoats”

Steffen Baumgart, coach of 1. FC Köln, said about the great excitement after the Rheinderby against Borussia Mönchengladbach. The cathedral city admitted 50,000 spectators despite the rising Corona numbers.

“I have the feeling that we are always scapegoated in football,” said Baumgart in the “ran Bundesliga webshow” and made it clear: “There are completely different responsibilities who have had the opportunity for two years act, and they don’t “,

Baumgart added: “If 35,000 nurses disappear in two years, it is not because of the footballers, but rather because of the lack of concepts. If it is in one country As Germany is not able to provide enough intensive care beds, then I ask myself who bears which responsibility here.

The Cologne coach expects those responsible to “perform their tasks and not point the finger at others”. Baumgart also has a clear stance in the vaccination discussion.

“I am clearly someone who is in favor of the vaccination, also for the booster vaccination. I am also happy to be available if you can do something together,” he said, adding: “But I will not be made a scapegoat and I find that very sad now. I hope that we can maintain our normal life. If that doesn’t work, we will of course also support everything that helps to get this pandemic under control. “

In addition, Baumgart spoke about his carnival costume (unicorn), with which he appeared on 11 November at the official start of the carnival time during training. “I stole my daughter’s outfit and thought it was just funny. There wasn’t much thought behind it. I put on a wig and glasses and that’s it. If you’re a coach in Cologne, I think that’s it also simply suitable for carnival. “