Time's up? Stephan Helm is facing his departure from Austria Wien. © APA / TOBIAS STEINMAURER

After a weak start: tremors at Austria Vienna

The weak start to the new football season has left its mark on Vienna's favorites. Jürgen Werner has surprisingly resigned from his position as sporting director of Austria Wien. The coach could soon follow.

August 27, 2025

From: apa/sn

As the Bundesliga club announced on Wednesday, Werner resigned at his own request and with immediate effect. "This was the result of discussions within the club's management regarding the future strategic direction of Austria Vienna," a statement read. Werner will now focus on his role as investor and co-shareholder at the club.

"I believe that, at the club's current stage, it is the right step to step down as sporting director and thus relieve the pressure on the team and the club. Austria Vienna has become a project close to my heart, to which I will continue to remain closely connected in my role as investor and co-shareholder," Werner was quoted as saying in a press release.

Jürgen Werner has resigned as sporting director. © APA / GEORG HOCHMUTH

Austria Vienna suffered their third consecutive defeat with a 1-3 home loss to Hartberg on Sunday and are currently second to last in the league table with just one point from four matches. In the stands, the violet fans had loudly called for Werner's departure.

Coach Helm on the verge of being fired

In addition to sporting director Werner, the weak start to the season could claim another prominent victim in coach Stephan Helm. Austrian media reported on Wednesday morning that the coach, whose staff also includes video analyst Daniel Gasser from Bolzano, is about to be replaced. Austria Wien is reportedly eyeing Markus Schopp as his replacement.