Bundesliga coaching great Peter Hermann dies at 74

German football is mourning the death of coaching icon Peter Hermann.

Photo by Christof Koepsel/Bongarts/Getty Images

Peter Hermann, one of the Bundesliga’s most highly respected coaching figures, has died at the age of 74.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Hermann worked as an assistant coach at some of Germany’s biggest clubs, including Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen and Schalke 04.

Bayer Leverkusen announced that Hermann died on Saturday from complications related to ALS, a neurological disease.

“He was the ultimate assistant coach in Germany. He was more renowned and respected within the industry than some head coaches,” Bayer Leverkusen wrote in a tribute to Hermann, who worked for the club as both interim head coach and assistant coach of the first team.

Bayern Munich also mourned the loss of the former coach, highlighting his role in one of the greatest achievements in the club’s history.

“Hermann was an indispensable member of the coaching staff during the historic first treble in the club’s history in 2013, serving as head coach Jupp Heynckes’ right-hand man,” the Bavarians stated.

Hermann also worked under current Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac during his time as an assistant at Bayern. Kovac told Sky Germany that he was “deeply saddened” by the death of his former colleague.

“He was a wonderful person. He has left us, and may God have mercy on his soul,” Kovac said.