Leverkusen set to hand Tapsoba captaincy as Andrich is cleared to leave

Bayer Leverkusen are preparing a significant change to their leadership structure, with Edmond Tapsoba set to replace Robert Andrich as club captain ahead of the new Bundesliga season.

Sky Germany reports that the decision has been made internally, with Tapsoba expected to take the armband from Andrich. Patrik Schick is also under consideration for the vice-captaincy as Leverkusen reshape the hierarchy within their squad.

The change carries implications beyond the captaincy itself. According to the same report, Andrich has been informed that his playing opportunities could be limited this season because of increased competition in midfield and that he would be allowed to leave the club before the summer transfer window closes.

That places the Germany international in an uncertain position only months after holding one of the most prominent roles in the dressing room. No destination has yet emerged as a confirmed option, and there is currently no indication that Leverkusen have reached an agreement for his departure.

Tapsoba’s elevation, meanwhile, would represent a considerable show of confidence in the Burkina Faso international. The centre-back has become an established figure at Leverkusen and his expected appointment would give him a more prominent leadership role as the club enters another period of transition.

Leverkusen have yet to formally announce the captaincy change, meaning the development remains short of official confirmation despite the advanced nature of the reporting.

The decision nevertheless offers a strong indication of how the club’s internal hierarchy is being reorganised before the Bundesliga campaign begins. Moving the armband from Andrich to Tapsoba while simultaneously opening the door to a potential departure for the former captain would amount to a clear shift in both leadership and sporting priorities.

Much will now depend on whether a suitable market develops for Andrich during the remaining period of the transfer window. Unless his situation changes, the 31-year-old faces the prospect of beginning the season with a reduced role at a club where he had previously occupied a central position.

For Leverkusen, the captaincy decision therefore appears to be more than a ceremonial change. It could also signal the beginning of the end of Andrich’s time at the club, while placing Tapsoba at the centre of the team’s new leadership structure.