Official | Robert Andrich named new Bayer Leverkusen captain | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen have become the third Bundesliga club to anoint a new captain heading into the new season. Whereas Borussia Mönchengladbach and RB Leipzig have taken the captain’s role from players still in the squad, however, Leverkusen found themselves in need of a new skipper following a departure. German national team midfielder Robert Andrich will inherit former keeper Lukas Hradecky’s armband.

Andrich’s elevated to captain had long been rumored. The 30-year-old’s leadership in midfield shall be sorely needed, particularly after the summer departure of team talisman Granit Xhaka. Andrich – who strongly considered leaving Leverkusen at the end of last season – is now tasked with serving as a pillar of stability following a mass exodus of players who regularly served under previous head coach Xabi Alonso.

“It was a totally straight forward decision,” new Leverkusen head coach Erik ten Hag noted at a Thursday press conference. “He [Andrich] emerged as a leader throughout training camp. He’s a natural leader. We had several leaders, but he stood out. He brought people together. The captaincy is more than the armband and I think he’s the right type of person for this.“

“Naturally, It’s a huge honor for me.” Andrich himself added in his own statement. “I’m very happy about the recognition from the coach and the coaching staff. The coach told me the day before yesterday. The team was then told yesterday on the pitch. I’m very happy about it.”

GGFN | Peter Weis