Soccer Bundesliga - Heidenheim coach Schmidt defends Kleindienst for change
After his departure to Bundesliga rival Borussia Moenchengladbach, striker Tim Kleindienst received support from his former trainer Frank Schmidt of 1. FC Heidenheim. The criticism from some fans was "not reasonable, but emotional," said the football coach, who was approached about the negative comments that had predominantly appeared in social media networks after the transfer announcement.
"I would like to call out to everyone: please consider what Tim has done here," said Schmidt about Kleindienst, who had bid farewell to his teammates at FCH's training camp for the new season. "Many think that 1. FC Heidenheim is the final assembly stage - like a car. That's not the case. There are still other clubs. He will be 29 years old. If he has the opportunity to make a new step through the contractual situation, then we have to accept that. Every fan should remember that we wouldn't be where we are today without Tim."
Kleindienst scored 83 goals in 172 official matches for Heidenheim. Among other things, he scored the decisive goal for promotion to the Bundesliga. "I wished he would stay - I told him that. But I can completely understand when he identifies a new step for himself. I am very grateful for the time," said Schmidt.
- Tim Kleindienst's former trainer at 1. FC Heidenheim, Frank Schmidt, is openly backing him following his move to Bundesliga rivals Borussia Mönchengladbach.
- Despite facing criticism from some fans on social media, Schmidt dismisses the negativity towards Kleindienst, calling it "not reasonable, but emotional."
- In his farewell speech at FCH's training camp, Kleindienst thanked his teammates and acknowledged his time at Heidenheim, where he scored 83 goals in 172 official matches.
- Schmidt acknowledges Kleindienst's contributions to the team, particularly in scoring the decisive goal for Heidenheim's promotion to the Bundesliga.
- Born in Germany's Baden-Württemberg region, Kleindienst is now set to continue his soccer career in the top-tier Bundesliga with Borussia Mönchengladbach.
- Frank Schmidt, who has made a name for himself as a coach in the German soccer scene, extends his support to Kleindienst, emphasizing that every player has the right to pursue new opportunities in their career.
