Soccer

Werder Bremen coach resigns over investigation into alleged forged Covid cert

Markus Anfang denied using a forged document but has since announced resignation

Werder Bremen head coach Markus Anfang. Photo: Roland Krivec/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Sat Nov 20 2021 - 13:52

Werder Bremen coach Markus Anfang has resigned amid an ongoing investigation into his alleged use of a forged coronavirus vaccination certificate.

The 2-Bundesliga club announced his departure, along with his assistant Florian Junge, two days after prosecutors revealed they were looking into the allegations concerning the pair.

The 47-year-old has previously denied using a forged document and said he had taken the decision to resign with immediate effect due to the “extreme stress” caused by the situation.

In a statement released by the club, Anfang said: “Because of the extreme stress caused to the club, the team, my family and myself, I have decided to immediately step down from my role as head coach of Werder Bremen.

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“I requested that the club management dissolve my contract, a request they have granted. I wish Werder all the success in the world both for today’s game against Schalke and for the future.”

Werder Bremen sporting director Frank Baumann said he respected the decisions of Anfang and Junge, and would immediately begin the quest for a replacement coaching team.

Werder sit in eighth place in the table ahead of Saturday evening’s home clash with Schalke.