“A fascinating and educational time”

Babbel on his speech to the team: “I thanked the team for their commitment. It was fun to work with them, even if the result wasn't always there. I told them along the way that they had a lot of talent but that mentally there was work to be done. Just as I said before, there is a lot of potential at this club.”

Babbel on his departure from TSG: “Every departure hurts and this one is no different. I've really enjoyed the last ten months; the facilities in Hoffenheim are brilliant. It was an enjoyable, fascinating and an educational time here. It was also sad, when I think back to Boris Vukcevic's accident. I respect and understand the decision of the club in terms of making this decision. Our form has been poor of late and there must be a response to that. That's football. I will keep an eye on the club and wish them the best and hope to see them push up the table as quickly as possible.”

Babbel also noted: “On behalf of Rainer Widmayer and myself, we'd like to thank everyone who supported us during our time at TSG Hoffenheim: The magnificent fans, who I thought were critical but also fair; all those working in the offices and of course the management, who were a constant source of support. Above all though, I'd like to thank Dietmar Hopp who believed in me right until the end.”