by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, June 6 (silubaba) -- Hamburg supporters are all too familiar with grief and sorrow as their team has been unable to return to Germany's top tier for the past four years. Even in their fifth attempt, they failed, losing to VfB Stuttgart in the relegation games.
From an outsider's perspective, the situation may seem tragic, but the fans, coaching staff, and players quickly developed a fighting spirit. Coach Tim Walter, visibly affected by the latest setback, declared, "We try again."
The glory days, known as the Golden Times, are now a thing of the past for one of Germany's most prominent clubs. With European Cup victories in 1977 and 1983, and three Bundesliga titles, the last of which was in 1983, HSV (Hamburger Sport-Verein) became an iconic club.
Despite their decline in sporting performance, the team has managed to maintain its allure and is currently ranked third in Germany and 16th in Europe in terms of spectator numbers. With over 50,000 fans attending each game, it's a testament to the club's popularity. However, patience is now required to gather the energy needed to make another push for promotion from the second division.
Shortly after the final whistle blew, sealing their 6-1 aggregate defeat, the club's managing director, Jonas Boldt, announced that coach Walter would remain in charge for the upcoming season. Consistency appears to be the driving force after several turbulent years.
Boldt and Walter, however, will have to forgo plans to significantly increase the budget, as TV revenue in the second division remains fixed at 23 million euros, instead of rising to at least 35 million in the first division.
"We came so close in both games, but we must face reality and try again. It might be frustrating, but it's the only option," stated the 41-year-old Boldt.
The official also revealed plans to improve the team's quality after failing for the second time in two years. Last season, Hamburg fell short against Hertha, and now they have experienced the same setback against Stuttgart. "We must realize that returning is far from a piece of cake," Boldt acknowledged.
Walter emphasized the need to stay on track and prepare for another attempt, remaining calm in the face of adversity. It may take some time to recover and move past the latest disappointment.
Bayern Munich striker and Hamburg native, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, spoke about the club's seemingly unbreakable aura, saying, "The atmosphere deserves top-tier football. It's just incredible what you experience in this stadium, along with the deep love of the fans."
Captain Sebastian Schonlau described the "indescribable pain" but also highlighted the fans' passion and the club staff's efforts, which have become an obligation to cross the finish line as soon as possible.
"We have established a crucial new connection with the fans, and that is a motivation boost to achieve our common goal next season," stated Boldt.
Walter emphasized that despite being considered a regular second-division team, they do not accept that status.
Despite their reputation, HSV must come to terms with the fact that they are currently suspended between their dreams of first-division football and the need to navigate a challenging path back to happiness. ■
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