Felix Magath

German football manager and former player who scored in two European finals and won Bundesliga titles as both player and manager.

Wolfgang Felix Magath (born 26 July 1953) is a German football manager and former player. The most notable spell of his playing career was with Hamburger SV, with whom he won three Bundesliga titles, the 1977 European Cup Winners' Cup Final and the 1983 European Cup Final, scoring in both finals. He also gained 43 international caps for the West Germany national team, winning UEFA Euro 1980 and reaching two consecutive World Cup finals. As a manager, Magath's honours include two consecutive Doubles (Bundesliga and German Cup titles) with Bayern Munich, and a further Bundesliga title with VfL Wolfsburg in 2009. In 2014, Magath coached English club Fulham, becoming the first German to manage in the Premier League.

Quick Facts

Role: Head Coach; Manager
Affiliation: FC Schalke 04 (Manager)
Status: Retired from Management
Key achievement: DFB-Pokal Winner (2011)
Playing career at schalke: None (Former Player for other clubs like Hannover and Werder Bremen)

Lore & Background

Born near Aschaffenburg, Magath started his career playing for local club Viktoria Aschaffenburg. From 1974 to 1976, he played for 1. FC Saarbrücken, at that time in the second division, before moving to Hamburger SV in the top flight. He spent the following ten seasons with Hamburg, and from his debut in 1976 to his retirement he scored 46 goals in 306 games in the West German top flight.

In 1983, Magath led Hamburg to success in the European Cup, scoring the single goal in the final against Juventus; in 1980–81, he netted a career-best (in the first division) ten goals, helping his side to a runner-up league spot, as Hamburg also won the league in three years during that time. Magath also represented the West Germany national team at many international events, including the 1982 and 1986 FIFA World Cups, helping West Germany finish in second place both times.

He was also part of the squad that won the 1980 UEFA European Championship. Magath made his debut on 30 April 1977, in a 2–1 friendly win with Yugoslavia, and went on to amass 43 caps, with three goals.

Reader's Guide

A diminutive playmaker, with an eye for goal, Magath normally played either as an attacking or central midfielder, and who possessed technical skills, vision, and stamina, despite his lack of pace and his stocky physique. He was also a good passer and striker of the ball with his left foot, and was known for his work-rate on the pitch, as well as his ability to interpret the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Felix Magath in Schalke history?

He served as the head coach during the mid-2000s, known for his intense leadership style and tactical discipline. Although polarizing, he remains a significant figure who reshaped how the team approached matches against top rivals.

What was Magath's coaching philosophy?

He implemented a physically demanding system that prioritized defensive solidity and high-intensity pressing above all else. This 'win at all costs' mentality transformed the squad into a fierce unit capable of competing with Germany's biggest clubs.

Did Felix Magath play for Schalke 04?

No, he never played as a professional for the Royal Blues during his playing career. His connection to the club is strictly defined by his tenure as a manager rather than any time spent on the pitch in the blue jersey.

Why is Felix Magath considered controversial among fans?

While admired for his dedication, many supporters criticize him for leaving without securing major silverware during his initial stint. His relationship with the club ended abruptly, sparking debate over whether his methods were sustainable long-term.