Derby defeat to Gladbach could end Wagner's reign at 1.FC Köln

According to the report, former Werder Bremen coach Horst Steffen is already in talks to replace the under-pressure 38-year-old.

Photo: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images.

As local tabloid The Express understands, 1.FC Köln is apparently preparing for a potentially sudden and unexpected change of coach. 

It's believed Köln held a "meeting of the Joint Committee" where, among other things, the future of René Wagner was discussed.

Resulting from the discussion, should Köln lose to local rivals Borussia Mönchengladbach on 11 October, Wagner could be dismissed. 

At the same time, however, Köln's bosses were deemed to have “stood firmly behind coach Wagner” in the very same meeting.

Furthermore, the Bundesliga club is reportedly already in agreement with a potential successor in the form of Horst Steffen.

The 57-year-old was most recently in charge of Werder Bremen until February 2026, has since been linked with numerous clubs.

Steffen was reportedly at the Geißbockheim on Saturday to watch Köln's reserves defeat VfB Hilden – and possibly to hold negotiations.

Under Wagner, who initially took over the role on an interim basis, Effzeh have only managed two wins in his eleven league matches to date. 

Against Borussia Mönchengladbach, Wagner apparently needs points to win back the support of the club's management.