After six eventful years in Green and White, Werder Bremen and Zlatko Junuzovic will part ways in the summer. Werder’s captain will not extend his contract at the club and will go in search of a new challenge for the start of the 2018/19 season.
After six eventful years in Green and White, Werder Bremen and Zlatko Junuzovic will part ways in the summer. Werder’s captain will not extend his contract at the club and will go in search of a new challenge for the start of the 2018/19 season.
"It wasn’t an easy decision to make – I’ve spent six emotional years at Werder Bremen, my first home in a foreign country, the club that gave me the chance to prove myself in one of the best leagues in the world. I was made captain here and I’ve always worn the shirt with pride. The whole club, everyone who works here, and especially the fans will always have a special place in my heart," said the 30-year-old, who will reveal in the coming weeks where his path will take him next. "The decision has been made, but there are still some details which need finalising, which means I can’t reveal anything just yet," he explained.
Florian Kohfeldt resents Zlatko Junuzovic’s decision, but has shown understanding: "We’ve reiterated time and again how important Zlatko’s quality on and off the pitch is to the team, so I would have liked to see him continue wearing the Werder jersey, but I can understand his decision. He’s at an age now where he may have the chance to reinvent himself and try something else. I wish him nothing but the very best for his future endeavours!"
Managing director Frank Baumann concurs: "He came to Werder as a young player and has since become won everyone over with his personality and his performances - he has worked his way up to become club captain and has been the face of the team in recent years. The fans will certainly give him a special send-off in the remaining games. We wish him all the best at his new club!"
Zlatko Junuzovic transferred to Werder Bremen from Austria Vienna in January 2012. He has made 194 appearances in the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal for the Green-Whites, scoring 22 goals.