Winfried Schäfer, born on October 1, 1950, in Germany, is a renowned soccer coach with an impressive career spanning over four decades. He began his journey in the world of football playing for Borussia Mönchengladbach from 1968 to 1970, where he made 43 appearances and scored 4 goals.
After hanging up his boots, Schäfer transitioned seamlessly into coaching, starting with Borussia Mönchengladbach II from 1982 to 1985. This early experience laid the foundation for a successful managerial career that would see him take the reins of various clubs and national teams around the world.
In 2017, Winfried Schäfer took on the challenging role of managing Esteghlal, one of Iran's most storied football clubs. Prior to this, he had already made a name for himself in the coaching world, with notable achievements such as leading a runner-up finish as coach in the AFF Championship in 2012, held in Thailand.
With his tactical acumen and motivational skills, Schäfer has garnered a significant following, boasting over 320,000 followers on his Instagram account, where he shares insights into his coaching philosophy and snippets of his personal life.
Off the pitch, Winfried Schäfer enjoys a tranquil family life with his wife and two children in Ettlingen near Karlsruhe, Germany. Having called this place home for over 25 years, he values the support and stability his family provides amidst the demands of a high-pressure coaching career.
Throughout his career, Winfried Schäfer has crossed paths with several influential figures in the world of football. One notable collaboration was with Nasser Hejazi, both of whom served as soccer managers for Esteghlal, showcasing their shared commitment to excellence in the sport.
As Winfried Schäfer continues to leave his mark on the footballing world, his legacy is defined not only by his achievements on the pitch but also by the values he embodies as a coach and mentor. His passion for the game, dedication to his players, and unwavering commitment to success serve as an inspiration to aspiring coaches and players alike.
With his wealth of experience and unwavering determination, Winfried Schäfer remains a prominent figure in soccer circles, shaping the future of the sport with each team he leads and every match he strategizes for. His story is a testament to the enduring power of passion, hard work, and perseverance in the pursuit of greatness.