Lustrinelli first made his mark on Swiss football as a forward, scoring 20 goals for FC Thun in the 2004/05 season as they sensationally reached the UEFA Champions League in 2005. He played 12 times for the Swiss national team and was part of the squad for the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

In 2012 - after stints playing both at home and abroad, including a spell at Sparta Prague, where, in 2006, he scored the fastest goal in Czech league history - Lustrinelli moved into coaching. He initially held various positions at FC Thun before taking over the Swiss U-21s side in 2018, successfully leading them to two European Championships. In 2022, he returned to Thun as head coach and presided over one of the most remarkable chapters in recent Swiss football history. He not only masterminded their promotion to the Super League, but then to the Swiss championship title.

Along with his own experience, boundless positive energy, and his fresh, creative approach to the game, Lustrinelli is also bringing personnel support to Berlin. His coaching staff will include Michel Renggli, an experienced Swiss professional who previously coached FC Lucerne’s second team. As a former Swiss U-21 coach Sascha Stauch is particularly known for his modern developments and innovative training methods. Enrico Schirinzi rounds off the new staff, bringing analytical expertise from both youth and professional football having most recently coached the U-17s at BSC Young Boys.

The reactions to Lustrinelli’s signing

“Mauro has demonstrated in recent years how he can shape and develop teams. Winning the championship title with a promoted team speaks to his technical quality, but also to his ability to lead and inspire a group,” said Horst Heldt, Union’s director of men’s professional football, on the appointment. “Furthermore, his style of play aligns with our vision. We want to play more actively, integrate more young players, and achieve success. We are convinced we have found the right coach for this and look forward to working together.”

“I am very much looking forward to the challenge at 1. FC Union Berlin,” said Lustrinelli on his new role. “Union are a special club with clear values and honest people. I am highly motivated and full of anticipation to embark on a new journey together with the board, the staff, the fans, and, of course, the team. With unity, passion, hard work, and courage, we can succeed together.”