Hull City Manager Tim Walter Invites Dialogue with Disgruntled Supporters

Hull City, currently positioned 18th in the Championship and ahead of the relegation zone solely on goal difference, has seen its manager, Tim Walter, extend an invitation to supporters to discuss the team’s recent displays. Following a streak of six Championship matches without a victory, including a 1-0 loss to Oxford United on Tuesday, some fans expressed demands for the German coach’s departure. Since assuming the managerial role in May, succeeding Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed despite guiding the team to a seventh-place finish, the 49-year-old has secured only three wins in 14 league fixtures. Speaking to BBC Radio Humberside, Walter stated, “They have to talk to me. I am open for a conversation with them.” He further elaborated, “It’s not about crying from the stands or writing situations on social media, I am open for them, we can talk to each other.” Walter added, “I am open-minded and have the willingness to learn as well. We want the togetherness. We want to do it with them.” The ex-Hamburg manager, who previously drew criticism from supporters for questioning their backing during the 1-1 draw against Portsmouth last Saturday, suggests that some of their dissatisfaction stems from an unfamiliarity with his tactical approach. Upon his arrival at the MKM Stadium, Walter has aimed to implement a more deliberate, possession-oriented playing style, emphasizing build-up from the back to penetrate opposing defenses. He continued, “They are welcome to see what we are doing all the time because it is different.” Walter explained, “It’s different to play possession instead of always trying to play transition.” He concluded this point by stating, “Transition is maybe more for the stands and entertainment but the other is to heighten your probability to win games.” Hull City manager Tim Walter indicated he does not perceive himself to be under pressure from owner Acun Ilicali. The Tigers have accumulated 15 points from 14 matches, placing them just outside the relegation zone on goal difference. Notwithstanding the team’s challenging beginning to the season, Walter affirmed a positive relationship with owner Acun Ilicali and emphasized a long-term vision. He remarked, “I am speaking everyday to the owner and we have an open communication.” Walter added, “We are always in touch to talk about not only football but to develop the club.” He clarified, “It’s not about ‘last year you were seventh so you must become sixth or fifth’ it’s about the longer term.” Walter further explained, “It’s not about winning promotion this year and being relegated the next. It’s about how we can develop this great club.” He concluded his thoughts on the club’s direction by stating, “The future is not Sunday or the week afterwards. My contract is three years. We are talking about the long-term.” On Sunday, the Tigers are scheduled to host West Brom, a team that has recorded draws in its last six matches. Walter expressed confidence in his side’s progress as they seek only their second home victory of the current season. He added, “I look at the performances not the results. If you look at the performances in the past few games there is a progression of more than 100% since the start of the season.” Walter concluded, “I am always positive and looking forwards. If you look in the rear view mirror of the car then you will lose your direction.”