Leverkusen coach Martinez offers Andrich his backing: "I’m happy with him"

The 31-year-old midfielder said he is struggling to cope with only playing a supporting role but will do all he can to fight for a starting place.

Photo: Pau Barrena/Getty Images.

Returning to winning ways with a 4-0 triumph over 1.FC Union Berlin yesterday, one Bayer Leverkusen player was singled out for praise. 

“He played 20 minutes today because he deserved it and had trained well," Carles Martínez told Sport BILD after the game.

"We have a lot of competition for places. I’m happy with him. I’m sure he’ll be in the starting eleven another day. 

"Rob wants exactly the same thing as me – the best for this club. And we’ll give our best to achieve our goals,” the Leverkusen coach said.

Just a few days ago, the 31-year-old was considered a clear candidate for departure and was even stripped of the captaincy.

However, despite interest from both Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig, Andrich stayed and demonstrated his professionalism. 

Andrich also capitalized on the surprising sale of Exequiel Palacios to Ipswich Town, which reopened the door for him in midfield.

As a result, he was also nominated for Bayer's Europa League squad, and will hope to keep impressing as his contract expires in 2028.

After the final whistle against 1.FC Union Berlin, Andrich appeared visibly moved by the reaction of the Leverkusen fans who applauded him.

“It's very, very nice to hear that [their chants of his name]. It shows that we're doing a lot of things right, especially with the fans.

“I'm the kind of guy who can't really enjoy that sort of thing. But I do realize it's an honour for me,” the 31-year-old told Sky Germany.