FORMER Bayer Leverkusen coach Sascha Lewandowski has died at the age of 44.
Lewandowski was found dead in his apartment in Bochum, west Germany, yesterday and German website faz.net report that no foul play is suspected.
He coached Leverkusen alongside former Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia in the 2012-13 season and also served as interim boss at the club from April to July 2014.
Lewandowski was most recently coach of second-tier side Union Berlin but quit in March after he reportedly complained of suffering “burnout” – which can lead to heart trouble.
He said at the time: “I had hoped that a break could be enough. This was unfortunately not the case.
“Besides the health risks, I must accept that I currently just not nearly have the power to work with as much energy as I am used as a head coach and as the team deserved it.”
Lewandowski had been in the role for six months and led the Schlosserjungs to five wins in 14 games before leaving the club.
Union president Dirk Zingler said on Union’s official website: “We are deeply upset and unbelievably sad.
“Our deepest sympathies and our sincerest condolences go out to Sascha Lewandowski’s family and relatives.”
Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller paid tribute to Lewandowski.
He said: “We can scarcely believe that Sacha is dead. He was a great man who brought all his strength and passion to his work.”
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