Leitl’s captaincy switch: Brekalo takes over from Reese

Stefan Leitl announced on Friday evening that Josip Brekalo will become Hertha BSC’s Hertha‑Kapitän, succeeding former captain Fabian Reese, as the club opens its 2. Bundesliga season against VfL Bochum. The decision was confirmed at the matchday conference, with Paul Seguin and Linus Gechter named as his deputies.

Until Wednesday it was still unclear which Berliner player would wear the captain’s armband for the upcoming season. At the Spieltagskonferenz trainer Stefan Leitl confirmed Brekalo as the new Spielführer and outlined the captaincy trio.

Leitl explained that Brekalo had recently extended his contract by one year, making the Nachfolge of Ex‑Kapitän Fabian Reese logical. The 28‑year‑old Brekalo replaces Reese, who left the club amid a major squad overhaul and now plays for relegated VfL Wolfsburg.

Reese’s departure was part of a broader restructuring that also saw Julian Eitschberger renew his contract and Marius Gersbeck complete the Mannschaftsrat.

"From the start Josip was the obvious choice for this responsibility," Leitl said. "He has the most experience and it is the next step in his development. I am convinced we have made a perfect choice with him. He identifies completely with this club."

Linus Gechter, previously linked with a possible exit, received the coach’s support and a new responsibility. "He has played many games and especially last season became a true performer. He is a U21 national player, which underlines his development since I arrived," Leitl added.

Paul Seguin, who told he has no ego problem when someone else takes the armband, is described as a "quiet leader" who leads by performance and takes responsibility within the dressing room.

Overall, Leitl expressed happiness with the configuration, calling it a "good captain trio" that should guide the team through the new Zweitliga‑Saison.