Ole Werner issues statement after RB Leipzig sacking

The 38-year-old was dismissed by the Bundesliga club despite taking them to a third place finish in the 2025-26 season.

Photo: Maja Hitij/Getty Images.

In the wake of his dismissal as coach of RB Leipzig, Ole Werner has addressed his former players, staff and fans of the Saxony-based outfit via a statement:

"Dear players, staff, and fans of RB Leipzig, as you learned yesterday, the club has decided to start the next season with a new coach. I have to respect that.

"Unfortunately, the timing of this decision makes it impossible for me to say goodbye to you all in person. I hope to be able to do so at a later date! Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for a year that I look back on very positively.

"A year ago, we set out with the clear mission of leading RB back into international competition, giving the team a new look in terms of both its appearance and style of play, and establishing a new, sustainable hierarchy in the locker room. Many changes were implemented.

"A year later, we can say that together we have succeeded in fulfilling this mission. Much of what we have achieved now feels like second nature. A year ago, many wouldn't have believed we could do it. The club is back on track!

"I would like to thank my players for their commitment, their trust in me, and their mutual support throughout all phases." Thank you. In all the tough decisions a coach has to make, you always kept the team in mind.

"Your professionalism and passion carried us through even the most difficult phases. You are truly a team! I enjoyed every moment with you; it was an honor! A huge thank you also goes to my staff and coaching team. You did a fantastic job! Thank you for your loyalty and trust during a year of upheaval and change.

"I would also like to thank Marcel Schäfer and his team in Leipzig for their trusting and intensive collaboration. And last but not least, thank you to you fans! We could always count on you; you were our 12th man and made Leipzig a place where I always felt welcome! 

"Now something new is coming for all of us. For some, it will certainly be a new opportunity. To those for whom this decision causes uncertainty, I would like to say that, in my view, change is above all the opportunity to learn something new and to grow as a person.

“Take advantage of this. Opportunity! I wish you all the very best and much success! Thank you for every moment and goodbye! Yours, Ole”.