Marcel Rapp, the new coach of FC St. Pauli, is set to return to Kiel on Friday evening for a match against his former club, Holstein Kiel. This marks Rapp's first meeting with the team since he was dismissed by the club in February after a 1:3 defeat at Karlsruher SC, which was the team's fifth consecutive loss.
Rapp, who coached Holstein Kiel for four and a half years, stated that the upcoming fixture is a special game. He noted that he had a successful period with the club and believes the team was lifted to another level during his tenure.
Holstein Kiel coach Tim Walter said he does not expect St. Pauli to gain an advantage from Rapp's familiarity with the players, as the teams play differently. Walter described the nature of football in the matchup as transparent.
Club context and match details
The match at Holstein Stadium will accommodate 11,700 spectators due to the ongoing demolition of the north stand as part of a stadium rebuild.
We must play so bravely and consistently forward.
Total new signings made by Holstein Kiel
The rosters of both clubs have almost completely changed since their last meeting.
