Tonda Eckert Appointed Southampton Head Coach Until 2027

Tonda Eckert 

Southampton appoints U-21 coach Tonda Eckert as head coach with a contract through to 2027, following Will Still's dismissal.

“We go all in; there is no other way. I don’t shy away from saying that we want to play for promotion...” 

Southampton has appointed their under-21 coach, Tonda Eckert, as their new head coach, with a contract running until 2027. The 32-year-old German took over as interim coach last month after Will Still's dismissal and has turned the team's fortunes around, securing four wins in five matches.

Eckert's appointment comes after a successful interim period, where he demonstrated a clear vision and communication style that has united the playing squad and supporters. Group Technical Director Johannes Spors praised Eckert's empathy and clarity, stating that he's brought a committed, attacking, and entertaining style to the team.

With Southampton currently 14th in the standings, Eckert is ambitious about leading the team to promotion. “We go all in; there is no other way. I don’t shy away from saying that we want to play for promotion,” he said

“We go all in; there is no other way. I don’t shy away from saying that we want to play for promotion,” Eckert said in a statement.

Tonda Eckert: First Team Head Coach 😇 pic.twitter.com/KZwMBo5sLA

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) December 5, 2025

Southampton, currently 14th in the standings with 24 points from 18 matches, are just five points off the playoff spots. They're looking to bounce back from their recent loss to Millwall as they host eighth-placed Birmingham City at St. Mary's Stadium on Saturday at 3pm. Birmingham City, on the other hand, are coming off a 2-1 win over Watford and are eager to continue their positive run. The Saints will be hoping to exploit their home advantage and move closer to the playoff positions.