St. Pauli: After falling in the table - now the turnaround counts!

St. Pauli: After falling in the table - now the turnaround counts!

It was a turbulent half-year for FC St. Pauli in the Bundesliga. The season started promisingly, but the promising start was followed by nine defeats in a row, which noticeably dampened the mood in the club. Before Christmas, however, the team managed an upward trend under coach Alexander Blessin with four unbeaten competitive games in a row, which gives cause for hope. NDR reports that St. Pauli defeated HSV 2-0 at the start of the season, which increased expectations of a worry-free season.

However, the club, which demonstrated a strong defense in the previous season, has found itself in the bottom third of the table this season. The Kiezkickers have already conceded 26 goals in 15 games, a significant increase compared to the 19 goals conceded at the same time last year. Offensively, however, things are going less smoothly: While the team scored seven goals in the first three games, they only netted six times in the following twelve matches.

Challenges and analysis

St. Pauli currently shares the title for fewest goals scored in the league with Heidenheim and Mainz. Summer additions like Joel Chima Fujita and Andréas Hountondji have not been able to bring the desired momentum into the game. Blessin faces numerous challenges: departures of top performers and injuries characterize his time at the club. Captain Jackson Irvine was out for an extended period of time following foot surgery and also publicly displayed a pro-Palestinian stance, which led to internal tensions.

Blessin was criticized during the defeat phase, but the 52-year-old remains calm and attaches great importance to continuous improvement. After 15 games, FC St. Pauli is in 16th place in the table with just 12 points. Those responsible at the club are planning a comprehensive analysis of the purchasing policy and squad width during the winter break in order to turn the tide.

The trainer profile Alexander Blessin

Alexander Blessin, who has been St. Pauli's coach since taking over in the summer of 2024, brings an impressive CV with him. Before his employment, he worked at Union St. Gilloise in Belgium, where he achieved a win rate of over 60%. Blessin, who was active as a striker in the top German leagues in his youth, is characterized by his modern, dynamic style of play, which relies heavily on pressing and flexible tactics. Sports director Andreas Bornemann highlights Blessin's international experience and tactical knowledge. Johannes Eggestein, St. Pauli striker, describes him as an open, communicative coach who puts a lot of pressure on the players.

The season is taking a turn and whether St. Pauli can overcome its problems remains to be seen. What is certain is that the coming months are crucial for the future of the club. Every step is important in this difficult process, and Blessin and his team are committed to continuing to improve. The winter break could be the key to realigning course and emerging from the current crisis. As NDR highlights, it will be an exciting time for FC St. Pauli!