Holstein Kiel has appointed Mitch Kniat as the new head coach for the Second League club. The club announced on Tuesday that Kniat, who is 40 years old and a qualified football teacher, will be replacing Tim Walter, who was dismissed the day prior. Kniat has signed a contract that runs until June 30, 2028, and will be supported by assistants Dani Jara and Janik Steringer.
Most recently, Kniat led Arminia Bielefeld, helping the club achieve promotion to the 2. Bundesliga and secure a spot in the DFB Cup finals. Before that, the 40-year-old began his coaching career at Blumenthaler SV, and later managed the second team of SC Paderborn and SC Verl.
KSV Managing Director Olaf Rebbe expressed his confidence, stating, “We are fully convinced of the overall package that Mitch brings, both as a person and as a trainer.” He added that Kniat embodies what is currently required and fits the “Holstein DNA” in the long term.
The new coach indicated his ambition to play football “with passion, intensity, and a clear idea.” He vowed to convince the fans with strong performances and work together to overcome the club’s current difficult situation. This season, Kiel has only managed one victory, and they are currently positioned at the bottom of the league table with only eight points.
