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Babbel leaves Hertha with immediate effect

Hertha BSC Berlin have parted company with coach Markus Babbel, who had previously announced that he would be leaving the capital club when his contract expired next summer.

Markus Babbel steered Hertha to promotion last season
Markus Babbel steered Hertha to promotion last season ©Getty Images

Hertha BSC Berlin have parted company with coach Markus Babbel with immediate effect.

Prior to Saturday night's 1-1 draw with TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Babbel announced that he would not be extending his contract, which was due to expire next summer. However, general manager Michael Preetz confirmed on Sunday that the club will hire a new coach to take over after the winter break.

Babbel had been in charge of Hertha since summer 2010 and led the capital club to promotion last term. Assistant coach Rainer Widmayer will take training on Monday and is likely to be at the helm for Wednesday's German Cup third round game against 1. FC Kaiserslautern.