Relegated Wolfsburg claims referee showed poor judgement in sending off Joachim Maehle

Ultimately, "everything hinges on one pivotal moment that determines survival or relegation. The match then shifted in an unfavourable direction," Hecking remarked, alluding to Joakim Maehle's early dismissal (14'). The second caution was "indisputable." Yet, concerning the initial booking, the 61 year old accused referee Felix Zwayer of lacking "tact."

Hecking's position post relegation remains unclear

He held "a vastly different perspective" on the event, stated Hecking. Maehle was "targeted three times, followed by three opponents confronting him, and if Bilbija's actions don't constitute violent conduct, then the game loses all meaning. We could protest, but it would achieve nothing." The outcome was "sealed" and they extended congratulations to Paderborn for their promotion following a 2 1 defeat in extra time.

Hecking remained ambiguous about how this first demotion to the second tier in nearly three decades impacts his future. "Personally, the primary emotion is disappointment over our failure. We need time to process this before discussing next steps," Hecking commented. Now, the immediate focus is to "grapple with the setback and regroup," noted supervisory board member Diego Benaglio. In the aftermath, "emotions ran high" in the dressing room.