Wolfgang Holzhäuser, Bayer 04 CEO from 1998 to 2013, looks at the phase when Rudi Völler took over the role as sporting director after four years working for the DFB that saw him take Germany to the 2002 World Cup final as head coach:
"Our almost ten-year association began in 2004. Reiner Calmund left in the spring of that year – and it was clear to me: Rudi Völler would be the sporting director with the charisma and the right pedigree to suit Bayer 04 down to the ground.
When I watched his last match as the national coach against the Czech Republic at the 2004 European Championships from the stands it was clear to me: If Rudi Völler really gives up as national coach then we have to get him back to Leverkusen. I was convinced we definitely needed a sporting director of the classic mould. We reached agreement and Rudi came back to us after a four-year break as the national coach.
That was possibly my best signing. Rudi gave us an unmistakable identity on the sporting front. He initiated and shaped a lot of transfers – and was also happy to get involved in negotiations if the other side needed convincing. Rudi is incredibly empathetic and is very good at understanding the feelings of other people and reacting accordingly. And whenever he had a go at referees or others in his impulsive way then he was usually sorry for that half an hour later. He apologised as he also always looks for harmony.
I've rarely met anybody who is as friendly as Rudi Völler We rarely disagreed with each other; and if that did happen then we always found a joint solution. Being loyal is one of his great strengths. Rudi also accepted responsibility for decisions, which he wasn't completely convinced about. We also never needed a note on the files about things we discussed. He always stuck to his word even if there was resistance from other quarters.
And of course: Rudi is simply a perfect master of the art of representation. His personal presence and the affection he shows to all other people whether that's the Federal Chancellor or a cleaner will make him a wonderful ambassador for Bayer 04."
#DankeRudi – Part III: Ballack: ‘Rudi knew exactly what made players tick’
#DankeRudi – Part II: Calmund: "Where would Bayer 04 be without Rudi Völler?”
#DankeRudi – Part I: Hermann: "A slick operator full of ambition"
Werkself-TV shows the highlights of the Bayer 04 women's 1-1 draw against 1. FC Köln on the 19th matchday of the Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga 2024/25...
Show moreThe Bayer 04 Women shared the points in a 1-1 draw with FC Köln in an entertaining Rhine derby with lots of goalmouth action for both sides. The team led by coach Roberto Pätzold put in a great effort that deserved the three points particularly in the second half. The team next to bottom in the table, who took the lead before half-time, played with great passion and only conceded the equaliser scored by Cornelia Kramer (54') before the final whistle.
Show moreWhere were you on 14 April 2024? – That question will probably be asked a lot in Leverkusen today. And can there be anybody in this city who doesn't have an answer to hand? Hard to imagine. That Sunday exactly a year ago was too special. Too big. Too stirring. Too incredible. Everybody will have their own personal memory of that historic day. As everybody was there somehow. Even those who were unfortunately unable to get a ticket for the game of games against Werder Bremen.
Show moreA year as champions of Germany! To mark this momentous achievement, the Champions Week starts today Monday, 14 April, through to Saturday, 19 April, at the Bayer 04 online shop and the Bayer 04 Fanwelt. Black and Red fans can look forward to lots of new articles celebrating winning the title as well as big discounts.
Show moreWith four games to play to the end of the season, the Bayer 04 Women still have a chance of Champions League qualification. To keep that opportunity intact, a derby win in the top match against FC Köln on Monday night, 14 April (18:00 CEST, live on SPORT1, MagentaSport and DAZN) is a must. The fact the coach will not be in the dugout does not diminish the huge ambition ahead of the clash with the neighbours.
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