The new Hertha coach takes a close look at the former AC Milan player and listens attentively. During his first training session, Felix Magath remained an observer and sought out a dialogue with two professionals.
Magath sought an exchange with Kevin-Prince Boateng when he finished training early as planned in the morning. For several minutes, the two discussed the role of the injury-prone Boateng.
The Berlin returnee has only made 13 part-time appearances this season, and it's unclear whether Magath, who places a high priority on physical condition, intends to work with him significantly.
As early as 2013, Magath had said about Boateng, who was playing for Schalke at the time: "As a coach, I always had my difficulties with players who I never really know whether they are fully operational or not. That's why, as a coach, I would not have agreed to such a transfer."
Nonetheless, on the first day of Magath, Boateng participated as a model professional. The midfielder was the first to arrive at the office at 7:32 a.m., one hour before breakfast, which was set for 8:30 a.m., and where the players got to know Magath.