Biography
Who is Felix Magath?
Early life and playing career
Born near Aschaffenburg, Germany, Felix Magath began his football path with the local club Viktoria Aschaffenburg. In 1974, he joined 1. FC Saarbrücken, where he competed in the second division. His career advanced significantly when he signed with Hamburger SV in 1976. Over ten seasons, he played 306 games in the top flight and scored 46 goals. During his time at Hamburg, he helped the team secure three Bundesliga titles.
He also played in the 1977 European Cup Winners' Cup and scored the winning goal in the 1983 European Cup Final against Juventus. Internationally, Felix represented West Germany 43 times. He was a member of the squad that won the 1980 UEFA European Championship and participated in two consecutive World Cup finals. As a playmaker, he was known for his technical vision and left-footed striking ability.
Transition to management
Following a knee injury, Felix retired after the 1986 World Cup. He immediately transitioned into administration, serving as general manager for Hamburger SV until 1988. He later held similar roles at 1. FC Saarbrücken and Bayer Uerdingen. In 1992, he started his coaching career as a player-coach for FC Bremerhaven, leading them to a division championship.
He returned to Hamburger SV in 1993, eventually becoming the manager in 1995. His tenure included a fifth-place finish in his first season. Despite his efforts, he was eventually dismissed in 1997 after a difficult run.
Success with Bayern and Stuttgart
Felix Magath earned the nickname the fireman for his ability to take over struggling teams and guide them to safety. His stint with 1. FC Nürnberg saw the club promoted to the Bundesliga. He also managed Werder Bremen and Eintracht Frankfurt, often dealing with difficult relegation battles. His career reached new heights at VfB Stuttgart, where he served as both head coach and director of football.
He guided the team to a runner-up finish in 2003 and developed young talent known as die jungen Wilden. This success led him to FC Bayern Munich in 2004. With Bayern, he achieved two consecutive domestic doubles, winning both the Bundesliga and the German Cup in 2005 and 2006.
Later coaching adventures
After leaving Bayern Munich in 2007, he moved to VfL Wolfsburg. He led the club to their first Bundesliga title in 2009. Later that year, he signed with Schalke 04, where he spent two seasons. In 2014, Felix Magath made history by becoming the first German manager in the English Premier League with Fulham. He aimed to save the club from relegation but was unable to prevent their drop to the Championship.
Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his demanding training methods and his ability to transform teams quickly. He has received honors including the Football Manager of the Year award and the Bavarian Order of Merit for his contributions to the sport.
Birthday and age
Felix Magath was born on July 26, 1953, which makes Felix 73 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Felix shares the date with 23 other famous people.
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