FC St. Pauli signs Marcel Rapp as new head coach after relegation

Rapp's Career at Holstein Kiel

Most recently, Rapp was the head coach of Holstein Kiel from Schleswig-Holstein. He took over the club in October 2021 and led them to the Bundesliga for the first time in 2024, finishing second in the league behind FC St. Pauli. The promotion was the greatest success in the Kiel club's history. After immediate relegation, Rapp initially remained in office but was dismissed on the 23rd matchday after a defeat in Karlsruhe. Tim Walter succeeded him on the Kiel sideline.

The situation at FC St. Pauli is fundamentally different: the club was relegated from the Bundesliga after a disappointing season and will compete in the 2. Bundesliga next season. The separation from Blessin occurred on Thursday, about three weeks after the confirmed relegation. Blessin still had a contract until the summer of 2027, but a continuation of the collaboration did not materialize.

Separation from Blessin Despite Ongoing Contract

Bornemann also commented on the separation from the previous coach. "Alex's qualities as a coach are undisputed; however, after our analysis, we came to the conclusion that a separation and a fresh start with full conviction this summer is the right path," said the sporting director. After thorough consideration, they decided against further collaboration, even though Blessin was still bound by a long-term contract.

Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Bornemann also announced adjustments to the sporting direction. "For the 2. Bundesliga, we will have to adjust our approach somewhat again. Marcel has absolutely convinced us in an open exchange with his ideas, visions, and great drive," said the 55-year-old about the new head coach.

Outlook for the Season in the 2. Bundesliga

FC St. Pauli's squad will undergo significant changes after relegation. The club had already announced that personnel cuts would be necessary to remain competitive in the 2. Bundesliga. With Rapp, they are bringing in a coach who knows the German professional landscape and has already organized a promotion to the Bundesliga.

The Hamburg club, which was last relegated from the top flight in 1977, 2004, and 2024, aims for an immediate return to the Bundesliga with Rapp. The signing is intended to underscore the initiated new beginning after the separation from Blessin. The club has not yet specified when Rapp will be officially introduced at Kollaustraße.

Rapp's record at Holstein Kiel was mixed: the historic promotion in 2024 was followed by immediate relegation, after which Kiel did not play the expected role in the 2. Bundesliga. The 47-year-old now brings this experience – promotion, crisis, restart – to the Elbe.

FC St. Pauli officially announced the move on Friday. Bornemann spoke of the club's clear commitment to Rapp and his ideas. The expectation around the Millerntor stadium is clear: after relegation, an immediate promotion should be achieved.