The Germany international has asked Bayer 04 to be be released from his contract. This has been agreed by the club. A further medical revealed that the player suffered damage to his spinal cord in April 2008 which makes it impossible for Schneider to continue his career as a professional footballer.
“I’ve had problems with my health since this incident. I made my decision following the advice of the specialists,” reported the clearly disappointed Bernd Schneider who has made 263 Bundesliga appearances scoring 35 goals for Bayer 04 since 1999. Schneider added: “It was really difficult to make this decision but I have a responsibility to my family and therefore I followed the advice of my doctors.”
Bayer 04 managing director Wolfgang Holzhäuser paid tribute to Bernd Schneider: “Bernd is part of the history of Bayer 04 Leverkusen. We’ve seen some great football from the “white Brazilian”. He’ll be greatly missed at the club.”
Director of sport Rudi Völler is full of praise for Schneider: “Bernd is a great footballer who entertained football fans in Germany and at Bayer 04 Leverkusen with his skillful performances. On top of that, Bernd is a very decent and modest man and I wish him the very best for the future.”
Germany coach Joachim Löw declared: “Bernd Schneider’s retirement makes me think back to his games for the national side. He was a key player in our team for many years and he made a great contribution to lot of our success. By the 2002 World Cup at the latest , he was a favourite amongst the fans. Bernd’s skill on the ball and his input in midfield were enormously significant for the national side.”
Germany captain Michael Ballack commented on his friend’s decision: “It’s a great shame. Germany is not only losing an outstanding player but also a great character. I’d love to be able to play in another big tournament with ‘Schnix’. It’s a big regret that this won’t be possible now.”
Bernd Schneider will have a testimonial game at the new BayArena. The when and how will be decided in the next few weeks. And Bernd Schneider will be involved in a number of areas at Bayer 04 Leverkusen next season. This may included the scouting or youth sections.