New manager Carles Martínez’s tactical shift toward a back four leaves the physical midfielder fighting for relevance as technical newcomers threaten to displace the Bundesliga champion.
Robert Andrich’s future at Bayer Leverkusen has become increasingly uncertain, with the midfielder now facing the possibility of leaving the club this summer if the right offer arrives. According to information from Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, the situation between player and club has been clarified, with Leverkusen open to a departure should a reasonable proposal be presented.
The situation is similar to the one involving Jonas Hofmann, who was also informed that his role could be reduced ahead of the new season. For Andrich, the issue is not related to his importance in recent years or his contribution to the club’s success, but rather the direction Bayer are taking under new head coach Carles Martínez.
The Spanish coach is expected to implement a different tactical approach, with a back four set to be the foundation of his system. Within that structure, Andrich’s profile does not appear to be the ideal fit. The 31-year-old has made his name as a physical and defensive-minded midfielder who excels in providing balance, winning duels and protecting the back line, but Martínez is looking for a different type of player to fit his ideas.
Competition in central midfield is another factor working against Andrich’s chances of regular playing time. Bayer already have several options in that position, and according to reports, Exequiel Palacios, Aleix García and summer signing Kennet Eichhorn are currently expected to be the preferred choices moving forward.
Palacios remains one of the pillars of Leverkusen’s midfield, while García offers another profile with technical quality, composure in possession and the ability to control the rhythm of matches. Meanwhile, Eichhorn represents the club’s long-term vision, with the highly rated youngster expected to be gradually integrated into Martínez’s first-team plans.
Andrich played a crucial role during Bayer Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten campaign under Xabi Alonso, becoming one of the leaders of the dressing room and a symbol of the team’s mentality. His performances, especially in big matches, earned him widespread recognition and made him one of the most respected players in the squad.
However, Leverkusen are now entering a new chapter following Alonso’s departure, and Martínez appears ready to make difficult decisions as he shapes the squad according to his own footballing philosophy. The club is not actively pushing Andrich towards the exit door, but they are prepared to listen if an offer arrives that benefits all parties.
For Andrich, the coming weeks could determine whether he remains at the BayArena to fight for his place or seeks a new challenge elsewhere. After playing such an important role in Leverkusen’s recent rise, his potential departure would mark the end of a significant era for both player and club.
From here the stage only gets bigger.
