By Henrik Petersen

Robin Koch reveals he turned down Hertha BSC to join Leeds

Robin Koch claims he was in 'intensive talks' with Hertha BSC before deciding to join Leeds from Freiburg.
Robin Koch could have stayed in the Bundesliga, but opted for a move to the Premier League.

Hertha BSC, among others, were in negotiations with the German international, but he was ultimately convinced to join Leeds United instead.

"We were in intensive talks, and I even met with [Hertha coach] Bruno Labbadia once. Basically, there were options to stay in the Bundesliga. I was considering a few other clubs in the last few months, but in the end I made my decision very consciously and with full conviction," Koch told Sport Bild.

Asked what sets the Premier League apart from other leagues, the 24-year-old responded:

"For me, the biggest attraction is the fact that there are so many top teams and a great game coming every second or third week. On average, the teams are playing on a higher level than in the Bundesliga, so I see this as a great challenge and opportunity for me."

Match days

Long reads

Exclusive interviews

Team News