Werder Bremen will fill a new vacancy in its sporting structure after Markus Pilawa agreed to leave the club early for personal family reasons. The 49-year-old had only taken up the role of head of squad planning and transfer strategy around four months ago.
Pilawa arrived at the Weserstadion in mid-May with a strong scouting record. He had previously worked as chief scout for both Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, where his assignments included scouting Michael Olise. Bremen sporting director Clemens Fritz had expected Pilawa to bring experience, specialist knowledge and a broad network to the club’s management operation.
The decision to end the contract was made last week. Pilawa, a Bochum native who remains closely connected to North Rhine-Westphalia, cited circumstances in his family environment. Bremen intend to appoint a replacement, although the exact shape of the role and the candidate profile have not yet been settled.
Short spell included transfer work
Fritz said Pilawa had communicated his decision openly. “We respect it, even though we regret his departure,” he said. “Markus contributed with great commitment over recent months and provided important impulses. We thank him and wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Pilawa was selected during Bremen’s recruitment process alongside the American agency Excel Sports Management, led by Aidan O’Brien. His brief included squad construction and transfer planning during a busy summer window.
One of his notable contributions is understood to have been the signing of Oskar Wojcik. The Poland international joined Werder from Cracovia for €3 million, with Pilawa regarded as well connected in the Polish market and a driving figure in the deal.
“These were very intensive months at a great club,” Pilawa said. “I thank the management for the trust they placed in me and for their understanding of a decision that was not easy. I also thank all colleagues for their cooperation. I wish the club and everyone connected with Werder the greatest possible success.”
