by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, April 16 (silubaba) -- It seems not without a certain irony that Pal Dardai ten years ago bought a house for his family roughly a mile away from the Berlin Olympic Stadium.
The opportunity to reach his workplace on foot might not have influenced the decision of struggling Hertha BSC to sack coach Sandro Schwarz and for the third time make an urgent appeal to the 47-year-old to act as a lifesaver.
The Hungarian's choice is much more about painting a picture of his close relationship with his favorite club, which some describe as a love affair. Not to mention his son, Marton Dardai, being a squad member of the team.
Few people seem to know more about the struggling Bundesliga bottom side than Dardai.
After 2015 and 2021, the former midfielder and Hertha's record player (286 first-tier games) accepted an emergency call while at present the task seems trickier than ever with only six rounds of matches remaining until the season's end.
"All know about my special relationship with Hertha. That's why I didn't hesitate to help despite only six games left and maybe two more when we reach the relegation," Dardai stated after signing a contract until the end of the 2022-2023 season.
The reasons for Dardai's appointment appear striking as the coach might be the most economical solution and fits the new approach of a club that claims to return to what is described as "the Berlin way."
As shattered dreams of turning into a "big city club", accompanied by overblown expectations and dizzying investments of over 375 million euros, failed, the wavering side not only needs to save money but is also facing an uncertain future.
The club's new president, Kay Bernstein, announced plans to trigger a period of humility and sharpen the identity as a Berlin club by mainly employing local staff.
Despite the noisy change of investors from Lars Windhorst to 777 Partners, finances are tight alongside the sporting crisis.
Instead of developing into one of the national league's top clubs and playing a vital role on the international stage, the side stands close to the abyss.
Some call Hertha a renovation case.
This Monday, the new coach is set to start his delicate mission to revitalize a team shaken by insecurity after losing devastatingly against Schalke 5-2.
The trusty friend enjoys tremendous popularity among the club's supporters as he never seems in a bad mood aside from his skills in solving problematic cases.
He pacified the relationship with a neighbor after the older lady complained about his sons constantly kicking their footballs into her backyard.
After several of the sports items were destroyed by the annoyed neighbor, he invited her for a coffee and cake afternoon. Since then, he reports, the parties have become understanding friends.
Now, Hertha is hoping for another miracle made by Dardai. "He twice proved he can stabilize a team with his clear plan and strategy. We are convinced he can do it one more time," Hertha sporting director Benjamin Weber said. ■
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