Karlsson Breaks Silence After Hammarby Sacking: 'It Was No Surprise'
Former Hammarby coach Kalle Karlsson speaks out after his dismissal following just 11 matches, calling the weeks after the AIK derby defeat the toughest of his life.
SFN Editor ·
Kalle Karlsson has spoken publicly for the first time since being dismissed as Hammarby coach after just 11 matches in charge. The 45-year-old manager faced the media on Saturday, one day after learning his fate during what was supposed to be his summer vacation.
"It was no surprise," Karlsson said during the press conference in central Stockholm, according to Expressen. The former Västerås coach admitted the recent period had taken its toll on him personally.
The turning point came after Hammarby's derby defeat to AIK, which marked the beginning of a difficult spell for the Stockholm club. "The weeks after the derby against AIK were the toughest weeks of my life," Karlsson revealed to Expressen.
Hammarby had started the season promisingly, reaching the Swedish Cup final and crushing reigning champions Mjällby in their league opener. However, form deteriorated significantly during May, leading to mounting pressure on Karlsson's position.
The club has already confirmed Henrik Rydström as Karlsson's replacement. Hammarby currently sits fourth in Allsvenskan with 17 points from 11 matches, seven points behind leaders Sirius who have played one game fewer.
Karlsson acknowledged the harsh realities of football management, stating he would conduct a thorough self-evaluation of his time in charge while maintaining there were no major issues with his coaching staff.