Most directors do not regularly speak to the media. But the directors that communicate regularly on behalf of the club are special. Simon Rolfes, Director of Football for Bayer Leverkusen is one of the best in his role. Communication is vital on so many levels for a club... "I want to develop Bayer 04 not just in terms of the first team but also in scouting & youth work. …new paths and ideas: A lot has happened in the last few years in areas like video scouting. I’m generally open to new things, to try them out and find out what it’s all about." "In addition, I encourage our members of staff. It doesn’t mean you have to chase after everything that’s new. The truth is often somewhere in the middle: Use new things without thinking it’s a cure for all ills." "We have established a clear position in recent years. We know exactly which players we are looking for. On the other hand, the players know the opportunities they have with us of developing in a settled environment and getting a lot of time on the pitch at an early age." "We want lads who are determined to further their careers and development and not just look at the financial side. We are very competitive in terms of these young and hungry players – not just nationally but also, above all, on the international stage." "We are aware that players strive to make changes at a certain point in their careers but that’s all part of football. Comparison with other clubs is of less interest to us. For us, it’s more about what we can offer a player here & his individual & team development with us." "If that does happen in the next few years then we will have the right response – as we did with the signing of Patrik when Kai Havertz left the club & we will be ready again in the future. Every team has a different character profile." "Every profile, every system has strengths and weaknesses. There's always the question of the qualities needed to break down an opponent. Our approach is definitely not mainly a physical one as we aren't all 1.90 metres tall." "But we have other qualities: I see that primarily as the way we play football. The pace, mobility and dynamic. If we give our all then we increase the probability of winning." "Quality is the crucial factor with every new signing. Fundamentally, we aim to avoid the squad from being too big. We also want to keep on giving our youth players a chance." [Bayer Leverkusen] = I have studied 237+ directors & 191+ managers in football. Communication is the bedrock principle of leadership. Honest communication leads to trust & respect. Leadership starts with empathy for the person. Then the player. Leadership ultimately drives results.

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