Kevin Behrens caused discussions with a discriminatory statement at a VfL Wolfsburg event. Now coach Ralph Hasenhüttl speaks out – with emphatic words.
Coach Ralf Hasenhüttl from Bundesliga soccer club VfL Wolfsburg stands by his player Kevin Behrens despite his homophobic statements. “It’s important to me that a player sincerely apologizes for doing something wrong and that he shows it,” said Hasenhüttl before the league game on Sunday (from 5:30 p.m. in the live ticker on t-online) against Werder Bremen. “Accordingly, I assess it as it is. And then you very quickly move on to the agenda.”
Attacker Behrens is said to have refused to sign a jersey decorated in rainbow colors at the end of September. With this, VfL wanted to set an example for diversity and tolerance. The offensive player is said to have made a homophobic statement. Shortly afterwards he apologized for his comments.
According to information from the “Wolfsburger Allgemeine Zeitung”, the club’s management imposed a heavy fine on the 33-year-old and allegedly also issued a warning. There has been no confirmation yet.
Hasenhüttl had also sought a conversation with Behrens. He emphasized that despite the incident, he “respects” Behrens “very highly.” He is always impressed by his professional attitude. “That’s why it’s easier to forgive a player like that than someone else.”