Leverkusen U-Turn: Robert Andrich now expected to stay

Robert Andrich’s future at Bayer Leverkusen has taken a surprising turn.

The 31-year-old midfielder had recently emerged as a clear candidate to leave the club after new head coach Carles Martínez made it clear that Andrich would initially have only a minor role in his midfield plans. Leverkusen had therefore encouraged the former Germany international to look for a new club. 

However, just days before the transfer window closes, a U-turn now appears to be underway.

Following Bayer’s surprising 3-2 defeat at newly promoted SV Elversberg on Saturday, sporting CEO Simon Rolfes indicated that he expects Andrich to stay.

“I assume that he will stay,” Rolfes said after the disappointing Bundesliga opener. 

Andrich still has a contract with Leverkusen until 2028, but his position within the squad had changed significantly this summer. Martínez stripped him of the captaincy, with Edmond Tapsoba taking over, and made no secret of the fact that the experienced midfielder was currently behind several competitors.

Andrich was not included in Leverkusen’s matchday squad for the defeat in Elversberg, highlighting his uncertain status. However, his departure now appears increasingly unlikely. 

The midfielder has been linked with a potential move to RB Leipzig in recent days, although there have reportedly been no concrete talks between the clubs. 

Andrich joined Leverkusen from Union Berlin in 2021 for €6.5 million and has since made 199 appearances for the club, contributing to 35 goals. He was also part of the historic Leverkusen side that won the domestic double in 2024.