1860 Munich Coach Kayabunar Downplays Favoritism Ahead of Season Start

Despite being widely tipped by rival coaches as the favorite for promotion, TSV 1860 Munich's new head coach, Alper Kayabunar, is managing expectations ahead of the Regionalliga Bayern season. In a survey by the Bavarian Football Association (BFV), 15 out of 19 coaches identified the "Löwen" (Lions) as the team to beat.

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As favorites, I do not see us.

However, Kayabunar insists, "As favorites, I do not see us." He pointed to the club's tumultuous recent weeks, which included a forced move to the fourth division due to financial reasons, a separation from investor Hasan Ismaik, a preliminary insolvency proceeding, and the rapid assembly of a new squad. "Right now, we don't know where we stand," Kayabunar stated, emphasizing the need for more time. He noted that several players on the team have never played together before.

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Right now, we don't know where we stand.

Despite the coach's reserved outlook, fan enthusiasm is palpable. Approximately 3,200 TSV fans are expected to travel to Schweinfurt for the team's opening match on Saturday. Kayabunar expressed his excitement, calling the fan support "unbelievable." He recalled hundreds of fans gathering at the club grounds the previous Wednesday to loudly cheer on the team during training, an event that left a strong impression on him. "I have never seen anything like it. We are extremely motivated," the coach said.

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We need certainly still a bit of time.

The team's journey back to the Regionalliga after the 2017/18 season has generated significant buzz among their Bavarian rivals. The "Löwen" are set to kick off their campaign against 1. FC Schweinfurt at 2:00 p.m. local time. Kayabunar acknowledged the long preparation phase, admitting it came with "a few difficulties," but the overwhelming support from the fanbase provides a strong motivational boost as the season begins.

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That was unbelievable.