Tommy Stroot has stepped down from his position as head coach of VfL Wolfsburg Women with immediate effect.
“Over the last few weeks I’ve noticed that I don’t feel the same energy inside me that I need in order to live up to my own standards and those of VfL Wolfsburg,” Stroot said.
“It’s not a feeling I’m used to and it has led me to reflect and take action, with the aim of doing what is best for this club and my team. I have reached this decision given my responsibility as head coach to the club, my players and the staff. I would like to thank the club management, the staff and the players for our successful working relationship, and I wish the club nothing but the best.”
“This news hits us hard”
The 36-year-old informed the club’s sports management team, led by managing director Peter Christiansen and director of women’s football Ralf Kellermann, of his reasons in a face-to-face meeting on Monday.
“This news hits us hard,” said Christiansen. “Over the last few years, Tommy Stroot has done an unbelievably good and successful job. He has impressively demonstrated his passion, ambition and immense professionalism in his work with the team. We wanted to continue on our path together but we also need to remember the human element in the football industry. Tommy has been very honest, both with himself and with the club. We respect that and together we came to the conclusion that this is the best solution for everyone involved.”
“Great mutual respect and trust”
Kellermann also expressed his regret: “The working relationship between Tommy and myself was one of great mutual respect and trust. We have the same ideas about how VfL needs to realign itself in women’s football in order to be competitive both domestically and in Europe. I appreciate the fact that Tommy communicated very openly and honestly with the club. I would like to thank Tommy for that, and for what we have achieved together. I wish him all the best.”
VfL will provide information on a successor in due course.
League champion, cup winner and Champions League runner-up
Stroot joined VfL in 2021 from FC Twente and won the league and cup double in his first season in charge. He also steered the She-Wolves to DFB Cup glory over the next two campaigns, and reached the UEFA Women’s Champions League final in 2023. In September last year he signed a contract extension to keep him at VfL until 30 June 2027.
