Onur Cinel Leaves Red Bull Salzburg by Mutual Agreement

Red Bull Salzburg and interim head coach Onur Cinel have agreed to part ways. Cinel is looking for a new chance to lead a club as head coach. There is interest in him from several countries.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Onur Cinel became Red Bull Salzburg‘s interim head coach in April 2024 after Pepijn Lijnders left. He moved from FC Liefering, Salzburg’s partner club, to guide the team for the rest of the season. Salzburg had a tough year, sitting fifth in the Austrian Bundesliga after 16 rounds, 10 points behind Sturm Graz. In Europe, they failed to make a mark, earning only three points in six UEFA Champions League matches and missing the knockout stage. Cinel was always a short-term solution and now both he and the club agree he is ready for a new challenge, ending his time in Salzburg.

SEASON SUMMARY AND TEAM CONTEXT

This season has been one of change for Red Bull Salzburg. The team started with hope but struggled after losing key players and dealing with injuries. Both Lijnders and Cinel didn’t meet expectations, leaving Salzburg away from the title race and under pressure to secure European competition next season. Despite their league position, Salzburg will still participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the USA, keeping their profile high internationally. Their next match is key as they try to catch up to the leaders and secure a spot in next year’s continental competitions.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ONUR CINEL?

Onur Cinel is now free to look for his next job, aiming to take a head coach position with more responsibility. Clubs from multiple countries have approached him, showing his growing reputation. For Salzburg, the focus is on hiring a new coach who can bring stability and help them compete for the league title and European success. Fans will watch closely as Salzburg makes key decisions to recover this season and prepare for the next.