Werder Bremen makes captain decision regarding Marco Friedl

Next weekend, SV Werder Bremen will kick off their 2026/27 competitive season in the DFB-Pokal against Lüneburger SK – and will be led by Marco Friedl as captain, just like last season.

A few weeks prior, Werder head coach Daniel Thioune had left the captaincy question open, announcing that he wanted to make a decision only after the pre-season. This decision has now been made, as the Bundesliga coach officially confirmed on Thursday.

"Marco Friedl is and remains our team captain. We sat down together and redefined the expectations. He has fulfilled this role very conscientiously and responsibly in recent years," said the 52-year-old, who is entering his first full season as Bremen's head coach.

"I have now given him a few more things that I want to see from him as team captain. That's why it's a good decision now," adds Thioune.

Werder Forgoes Team Council

Furthermore, Werder will initially not have a classic team council in the 2026/27 season. However, Thioune keeps open the possibility of appointing two vice-captains to support Friedl later.

"I reserve the right to appoint two vice-captains to Marco on August 31st. I currently find the team council somewhat overrated. Instead, I could imagine forming a leadership group," explains Thioune.

"However, I don't want to limit this to four, five or six players; instead, I will personally take the guys aside. But Marco will clearly be the first point of contact, and the other two will support him," said the coach.