Wolfsburg – The search for a new sporting managing director at VfL Wolfsburg is proving a protracted affair, with club representative Diego Benaglio admitting that qualified candidates are scarce, as most are already "employed somewhere." The urgency of the situation is underscored by the club's precarious position in the relegation play-off spot.
The club is prioritizing finding the "right candidate," even if it means a prolonged search, over a hasty appointment. This measured approach comes as Wolfsburg faces an uncertain future in either the Bundesliga or the second division, a crucial factor for any potential recruit. Benaglio stressed that the ideal candidate must be committed to the club irrespective of its league status.
Benaglio's Evolving Role
Diego Benaglio, a former goalkeeper and club legend, has seen his involvement with VfL Wolfsburg deepen since his return. He first joined the club's supervisory board in June 2025, a move that signaled his continued connection to the team.
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His initial role as a board member involved discussions about the club's future, encompassing both the men's and women's teams, as well as the youth academy.
More recently, in March 2026, Benaglio assumed an interim sporting managing director role. This was a decision made by the supervisory board, led by chairman Sebastian Rudolph, to leverage his "sporting expertise" and act as a liaison between the coaching staff, players, and the board.
Rudolph highlighted Benaglio's suitability for the interim position, noting his experience and deep identification with VfL Wolfsburg. Benaglio's playing career at the club spanned from 2008 to 2017, during which he was part of the team that won the Bundesliga title in 2009. His return, therefore, is framed as a homecoming, with Benaglio expressing a desire to "give back" to the club that played a significant part in his career.