Hecking Considers Long-Term Stay at Bochum After Rescuing Them from Relegation
Dieter Hecking is open to extending his tenure as head coach of VfL Bochum beyond the current season, despite initially joining the club with the sole aim of avoiding relegation.
"My focus right now is solely on securing our survival in the Bundesliga. That was the purpose of my arrival here," said the 60-year-old in an interview with the Wolfsburger Allgemeine Zeitung. "But I am aware that I cannot delay my decision until the end of May. I have stated that if we manage to stay up, I will most likely remain at VfL."
Hecking took over the reins at Bochum in November with the team languishing at the bottom of the table. Ahead of their match against his former club VfL Wolfsburg on Saturday, Bochum sits level on points with 1. FC Heidenheim in the relegation playoff spot.
Hecking’s arrival at Bochum marks a return to coaching after a four-year stint as sporting director at 1. FC Nürnberg. He is now the oldest coach in the Bundesliga.
"I believe experience should always be a significant factor when a club is considering a coach," he said. "I don’t say this just because I’m the league’s eldest manager, but I have observed that younger colleagues sometimes strive for too much too soon. Very few are willing to take detours, work in the second division, and potentially make mistakes as part of their learning process."
Hecking’s Coaching Philosophy: Patience and Learning from Mistakes
Hecking believes that coaches should prioritize the long-term development of their teams and players, rather than seeking immediate success.
"My philosophy is based on patience and allowing both individuals and the team to grow gradually," he explained. "It’s essential to create a stable environment where mistakes are accepted as opportunities for improvement. Development takes time, and shortcuts rarely lead to sustainable results."
Hecking’s Impact on Bochum: Rebuilding from the Ground Up
Hecking joined Bochum with the club in a perilous position, facing almost certain relegation. However, under his guidance, the team has shown significant improvement, moving out of the relegation zone and into contention for a playoff spot.
"When I arrived, the mood at the club was understandably negative," said Hecking. "My first task was to restore belief and confidence within the squad. I wanted them to understand that they had the potential to turn things around, and that we would work together as a unit to achieve that goal."
Bochum’s Current Form: A Resurgent Team on the Rise
Bochum’s recent form has been impressive, with the team going unbeaten in their last six league matches, including a 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund. Hecking credits this resurgence to the players’ hard work, determination, and growing understanding of his philosophy.
"The players have embraced the principles we have implemented, and they are showing great commitment and desire on the pitch," said Hecking. "They have developed a strong sense of togetherness, and that has been crucial in our recent performances."
Hecking’s Future Prospects: Staying at Bochum or New Challenges Await?
While Hecking is open to staying at Bochum beyond this season, he is also aware that opportunities for experienced coaches are limited in the top leagues. He remains open to new challenges, but insists that he is fully committed to Bochum’s success for the time being.
"I am not fixated on my age or my position in the Bundesliga," said Hecking. "My priority is to help Bochum stay in the league and continue to grow as a club. If that means staying here for the long term, I am fully prepared to do so. However, if a different opportunity arises that I believe aligns with my goals and aspirations, I will certainly consider it."
