Leverkusen, Spahic part ways over head-butting incident

BAYER Leverkusen have cancelled Emir Spahic’s contract after he headbutted a steward after his side’s DFB-Pokal defeat to Bayern Munich.

Following his side’s elimination on penalties in the cup competition, Spahic was caught on camera in an altercation with some stewards.

The defender appeared to aim a headbutt at one steward, having previously made a running leap at him and later insisted he was defending his brother, who was allegedly offended by the security team.

The prosecutor’s office have since opened an investigation against the centre-back, but the club have acted quickly and terminated his contract.

“Bayer 04 Leverkusen will mutually terminate the current contract of Emir Spahic following the incident after the cup game against Bayern Munich with immediate effect,” a statement read.

The club’s CEO, Michael Schade, spoke highly of the 34-year-old, but insists the club had “no choice” but to part ways with him.

“Emir Spahic is an outstanding football player who has served Bayer 04 well,” he said.

“However, recent findings after the incident last Wednesday left us with no choice. After a video emerged that made us all shocked and very upset, we could no longer wait for the outcome of the legal investigation or a possible criminal case, but we have to immediately think about a reaction from the club.

“With Emir we have found an amicable solution. Emir regrets his actions. For his future, we wish him all the best and good luck.”

Spahic himself accepted responsibility for the incident and apologised for his violent reaction.
“I regret my behaviour,” he said. “I want to apologise to the victims and their families. I know that I have given my club huge problems with this.

“My coach Roger Schmidt, manager Jonas Boldt, sporting director Rudi Voller and CEO Michael Schade have always shown great confidence in me.

“It was a great honor to be part of this great team. I wish my friends in the team and the whole club, as well as the outstanding fans of Bayer Leverkusen, all the very best for the great future that lies ahead this club.”