Football Season Review

№15: Augsburg

Augsburg failed to improve on what had been a poor 2017-18 season and put an up even worse campaign this time around as they just about managed to secure their survival in the Bundesliga for another season. Targeting a top half finish, Augsburg did make a positive start to the season, winning three and losing three of their first 10 games but hit a major blip in form that saw them pick up just five more points from their next 13 games to quickly slide close to the relegation zone. By then a number of players were questioning Manuel Baum's suitability to lead the club and, while Martin Hinteregger was punished by being told he had no future at the club and loaned out, other players voicing their opinion meant it was Baum who was relieved from his job with six games remaining and his replacement Martin Schmidt did just enough to ensure his side stayed clear of the relegation zone. Player mutiny characterized a dismal season for Augsburg with question marks over Baum coming after Caiuby had also clashed with his coach, staging another disappearing act during the winter break after which he was let go. Alfred Finnbogason was once again their key player, with the attacker offering a different quality but struggled to stay fit and managed just 18 appearances during which he bagged 10 goals which was enough to see him end the campaign as the top scorer. Augsburg did show improvement under Schmidt but will require a major rebuilding job in the summer if they are to avoid another campaign flirting with relegation.


Player of the Season: Alfred Finnbogason