Rudi Völler will become Germany’s new sporting director on February 1. The search began after Oliver Bierhoff left the role due to Germany’s early exit at the World Cup in Qatar.
On his appointment, Völler said: “After many great years at Bayer Leverkusen, I’m returning to the place where I experienced wonderful times as head coach. That’s why I’m approaching my new task with the national team with gratitude, passion and great motivation.” Völler had previously been the sporting director at Bayer Leverkusen until the summer of 2022 where he undertook roles on the shareholder’s committee and with club representatives.
Völler also outlined what he plans to do in his new role: “First of all, we have to lay the foundations for a successful European Championship at home in 2024, supported by all of Germany. We have the players for this. We now want to form a unit with these many top players, a strong and likeable national team to win fans back. And above all, I want to give our national coach Hansi Flick and his coaching staff a tailwind.”
Head coach Hansi Flick also spoke on the appointment of Völler: “Rudi Völler is a constant in German football. With his style and his success, he has inspired the fans as a player, coach and manager. His experience with the national team and many years of work at Bayer Leverkusen make him the right person for the upcoming tasks. My coaching staff and I are looking forward to going together onto the European Championships at home next year.”
Germany are now in the process of evaluating and rebuilding their footballing structure after two consecutive eliminations in the group stage at the World Cup. The four-time world champions do not play another competitive game until they open the 2024 European Championship on June 14 June in Munich.
GGFN | Jack Meenan
