Socceroo hit by major change just weeks into European move as German club sack history-making coach

Socceroos forward Nishan Velupillay faces an early change in Germany after third-tier club FC Ingolstadt sacked head coach Sabrina Wittmann just weeks into his European transfer.

Ingolstadt parted ways with history-making boss Wittman seven rounds into the 2026-27 3.Liga campaign, with the team 13th in the standings and 10 points off the pace.

While in Germany’s third division, Ingolstadt had demonstrated they are re an innovative club after hiring Wittmann, who became the first female head coach in the country’s top three tiers following her appointment in 2024.

However, Ingolstadt have opted for change after back-to-back losses.

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Harald Gartner, Managing Director of Sport and Communications at FC Ingolstadt 04, said: “This step follows an intensive review of the team’s sporting development over the past season and the results achieved so far in the 3. Liga.

“Against this backdrop, we consider a realignment necessary in order to provide new impetus for the tasks ahead. On a human and personal level, this decision was very difficult for us.

“We thank Sabrina for her commitment and the time we spent together at FC Ingolstadt 04. We wish her all the best and much success for her future personal and professional path.”

It is a big change for Australia international Velupillay, who arrived from A-League Men side Melbourne Victory in August.

Velupillay – on international duty with the Socceroos – has scored once in five appearances for Ingolstadt this season.

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Wittman added: “I would have loved to continue and continue the journey with a team full of exceptional characters.

“Unfortunately, the necessary trust is no longer there, and the club has opted for a different solution. Ingolstadt was more than just any club to me.

“It was my home. It’s where I grew up playing football and made so many special memories. The club, with all its people and staff, has become incredibly dear to me. I wish the club all the very best for the future.”