There were emotional scenes at the Weser-Stadion ahead of kick-off on Saturday as the Green-Whites officially said goodbye to Koen Casteels, Davie Selke and Sebastian Prödl...
There were emotional scenes at the Weser-Stadion ahead of kick-off on Saturday as the Green-Whites officially said goodbye to Koen Casteels, Davie Selke and Sebastian Prödl...
There were emotional scenes at the Weser-Stadion in front of the 42,100 spectators ahead of kick-off on Saturday as the Green-Whites officially said goodbye to Koen Casteels, Davie Selke and Sebastian Prödl.
The central defender has been at Werder for the past seven years and wore the captain's armband for one last time at the Weser-Stadion. "It was fantastic to lead the side out onto the pitch. I've had an amazing time here in Bremen. I was already very emotional before kick-off but I tried to block all that out and focus on getting a result during the match. Saying goodbye is tricky but I'm leaving full of pride," reflected Prödl.

Werder manager Viktor Skripnik acknowledged the performance of the Austria international at full time. "Basti has had a magnificent time here. He is a very good player and will certainly prove his quality at another club. It's obviously sad when a player leaves but he's not the first to part ways. Of course we're going to miss him but I hope he'll also miss Werder," said Skripnik.
Davie Selke, who was also presented with flowers, a commemorative photo and applause before the game, praised teammate Prödl. "He has achieved a lot with Werder but is now on the hunt for a new challenge," said Selke. "As they were saying goodbye to us before the game, I reflected on my time at the club. It still hasn't sunk in that soon I won't be playing here anymore. I feel sad when I think about leaving Bremen," explained the 20-year-old. He has "lots to thank Werder for" announced Selke. "I'm leaving with some sadness but am looking forward to the new challenges that lie ahead."

As well as Selke and Prödl, Skripnik also has to let Koen Casteels go. While Prödl has been a part of the Werder family for years, the goalkeeper has only played for the Green-Whites for the past five months. Despite his short time at the club, both sides will find it difficult to say goodbye and go their separate ways soon. This is not only because of his strong performances in goal but also because Casteels identifies fully with the club and their aims and has made lots of friends. "We're pleased that Koen spent half a year with us," commented Skripnik.
Selke, Prödl and Casteels are all a part of Werder, a part of the club's outstanding season, a part of the city. "Bremen is a place that I'd always be happy to return to. I've made lots of friends in the club and the city," remarked Prödl. The feeling is also certainly mutual for his two departing teammates.
