Leverkusen boss says he'd break the rules to bring back Kai Havertz

On his return to Bayer Leverkusen, Kai Havertz received a warm reception during Wednesday evening's 1-1 Champions League first‑leg draw with Arsenal. When asked about a possible future comeback, sporting director Simon Rolfes admitted: "With Kai, there's always the danger that I'll weaken.

He knows that too." Leverkusen have long held a policy against re-signing homegrown stars who left for top clubs, reasoning they offer limited help in the autumn of their careers. Rolfes said he would be willing to break that rule for Havertz: "Whenever we talk, I start digging," he added.

Havertz spent ten years with the Werkself, making 150 competitive appearances, scoring 46 goals and providing 31 assists, with 11,322 minutes played. He left for Chelsea in the summer of 2020 for a fee just under €100 million and moved on to Arsenal in 2023. His bond with Leverkusen's decision‑makers and supporters remains strong.

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