### Werder Bremen's Coaching Shake-Up: A Rapid Response to Contract Refusal - Werder Bremen has swiftly appointed Horst Steffen as the new head coach following the dismissal of Ole Werner, who was let go after he declined to extend his contract beyond 2026. This decision reflects the club's desire for continuity and clarity in leadership as they prepare for the upcoming season. The move comes just two days after Werner's contract refusal, indicating the club's urgency in securing a new direction for the team [https://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/werder-bremen-coach-steffen-v59788]. ### Breakdown of Events Leading to the Coaching Change 1. **Contract Refusal**: Ole Werner informed Werder Bremen that he would not extend his contract, which was set to expire in June 2026 [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/official-ole-werner-not-extend-113800334.html]. 2. **Immediate Dismissal**: Following this announcement, the club decided to part ways with Werner, citing the need for a clear vision moving forward [https://apnews.com/article/werder-bremen-coach-ole-werner-13e4d4919f25ce1e6a844ec98a7acdc9]. 3. **Appointment of New Coach**: Horst Steffen was appointed as the new head coach just two days after Werner's dismissal, signaling a quick transition in leadership [https://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/werder-bremen-coach-steffen-v59788]. ### Evidence Supporting the Coaching Transition - **Timeline of Events**: - **May 26, 2025**: Ole Werner announces he will not extend his contract [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/official-ole-werner-not-extend-113800334.html]. - **May 27, 2025**: Werder Bremen officially fires Werner [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/werder-bremen-sack-ole-werner-075600701.html]. - **May 29, 2025**: Horst Steffen is introduced as the new head coach [https://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/werder-bremen-coach-steffen-v59788]. ### Summary of the Coaching Change at Werder Bremen 1. **Context**: The dismissal of Ole Werner was a direct result of his refusal to extend his contract, prompting Werder Bremen to seek a new head coach to ensure stability and direction for the team. 2. **Actions Taken**: The club acted quickly, terminating Werner's contract and appointing Horst Steffen within two days, demonstrating their commitment to a proactive approach in leadership changes. 3. **Future Implications**: With Steffen at the helm, Werder Bremen aims to establish a new strategic direction as they prepare for the next season, emphasizing the importance of continuity in coaching staff [https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/werder-bremen-fires-coach-ole-werner-after-he-declined-to-extend-his-contract/article69626852.ece].