Albert Riera is unlikely to remain the coach of Eintracht Frankfurt beyond the current season.
According to Sky, a separation from the Spanish coach is firmly planned by the Hessian club at the latest after the end of the season. The broadcaster even suggests that an immediate dismissal could occur if Eintracht suffers a heavy defeat against Borussia Dortmund on Friday evening.
However, Sky reports that a «rapid escalation» is to be avoided. Furthermore, a separation after the season would be «cost-effective» despite Riera’s contract running until 2028. This is reportedly due to a «parachute clause» integrated into Riera’s contract, which apparently allows for his termination. In this scenario, Riera would not remain on the payroll indefinitely.
According to Sky, Eintracht already has four coaching candidates on its shortlist internally. One of them is reportedly Matthias Jaissle, who has won the Asian Champions League twice in a row with Al-Ahli. Jaissle also celebrated significant successes in Europe with RB Salzburg, including winning the Austrian Double of league and cup. He then moved somewhat surprisingly to the Saudi Pro League in 2023.
Now, according to Sky, he is ready and open to a return to Europe, despite his current contract until 2027. There is said to be concrete interest from the Premier League and the Bundesliga. At least with Eintracht, a potential buyer is now clear.
Albert Riera at Eintracht Frankfurt: A Foregone Conclusion?
Riera was hired in Frankfurt less than 100 days ago as Dino Toppmöller’s successor, and he immediately faced the challenge of not being an easy personality. This was consistently claimed by numerous associates when Eintracht brought Riera from NK Celje in February.
The widely circulated rumor that Eintracht had brought a powder keg into its midst with Riera has clearly come true only a few months later. Riera is reportedly at odds with numerous key players in the squad, with a recent falling out with striker Jonathan Burkardt making headlines.
Dozens of questionable internal details about his handling of the team have emerged since Riera took office. He vehemently denied everything in a recent legendary press conference, where he revealed a catastrophic understanding of the media. Furthermore, the sporting performance under Riera has not been outstanding. On average, he has secured 1.33 points per game, with only four wins out of twelve Bundesliga matches under his tenure, and also only four losses. Qualification for the Conference League remains possible with a one-point deficit to SC Freiburg. Nevertheless, a separation from Riera now seems unavoidable.
Riera himself remained combative ahead of Friday evening’s match against BVB. «I don’t think about my future, that’s not important. Only the team matters, and getting points in these two games,» said the 44-year-old on Thursday. He added, «I know exactly how this profession works. I tell myself, Albert, if you don’t win enough, then someone else will. That’s how it is.»