Leipzig Sporting Director Self-Critical: "That Was Absolutely Undignified"

At RB Leipzig, the unexpected departure of Ole Werner stirred up a lot of dust.

The 38-year-old was dismissed after just one season in office, despite finishing 3rd and thus qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. His successor is former Argentine defender Martin Demichelis.

The fact that the coaching change leaked while Werner was still on holiday leaves Sporting Director Marcel Schäfer with an uneasy feeling.

"The Last Few Weeks Were Simply Bad"

"The last few weeks – and one has to be that self-critical – were anything but optimal, simply bad. But you have to know: We had already had a longer, confidential conversation with Ole in South Africa," Schäfer tells "Bild".

This conversation was meant to be continued after Werner's holiday. "The fact that so much then played out in public for various reasons in between was absolutely undignified towards both the person and the coach Ole Werner. I am truly very sorry about that," the former professional shows remorse.

Too Little Respect Shown

The discussions between the coach and the club were "always very open" and "honest." However, Schäfer is aware that there are decisions "that initially meet with little understanding."

"Sometimes they are brutal. Nevertheless, it's always about a respectful manner. We failed to achieve that this time," admits the sporting director.

Discussions with Klopp

The extent of Schäfer's involvement in the dismissal is to be questioned.

Jürgen Klopp, Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull, in particular, was reportedly not a fan of Werner, and their relationship had long been strained. Coaching Shake-up in Leipzig: Is there a power struggle at Red Bull? >>>

Schäfer hints that there isn't always agreement with Klopp: "We are regularly in touch. And yes, we discuss – sometimes for a long time and controversially. But in the end, we take responsibility in Leipzig."