Former Salzburg Academy Coach Reports Death Threats

Tonda Eckert was Marco Rose's assistant coach for the FC Red Bull Salzburg U18 team in 2016/17. Last season, the German caught attention on the island.

First, he achieved a breakthrough as head coach in professional football with Southampton, leading the "Saints" to the play-off final for promotion to the Premier League.

Eckert Was Responsible

However, the "Spygate" scandal cost the club this final; Eckert had opponents Middlesbrough scouted before the semi-final. Southampton's 2-1 victory was revoked, and the match was awarded to the opponent.

After that, a difficult time awaited him. "I authorized it, so the overall responsibility lies with me. Especially in England, many tasks are bundled into the manager's role. The decision was wrong and had huge consequences for players, fans, and the club," he told "kicker".

Additionally, the club faces a four-point deduction for the new season. Eckert faced a wave of hatred. "You're not prepared for that. I'm hardly active on social media, which was helpful in this situation. Nevertheless, people found ways to send me threats," said the German.

Eckert Had to Involve the Police

Eckert also suffered from sleep problems back then. "They existed. Above all, there was a permanent carousel of thoughts," reports the former Rose assistant.

Even worse were the death threats he received. "That could no longer go without involving the police. I don't want to go into details, just this much: I was advised not to drive myself anymore, but to sit in the back of the car. That was very difficult," said the former Salzburg youth coach.

Despite criticism, the club stood by its coach. "This commitment came from the club management, the staff, and the players, which meant an enormous amount to me. After that, it was clear to me that I wanted to repay this trust," Eckert said.