After a few months, the liaison between Max Kruse and SC Paderborn seems to be ending again. The former national player is said to have agreed with the second division club to terminate his contract immediately.
The “RevierSport” portal reported this on Tuesday evening. The eleventh in the table has so far neither confirmed nor denied the surprising report.
Kruse repeatedly struggled with injuries in Paderborn and only played in five games for East Westphalia under coach Lukas Kwasniok. He managed an assist.
According to reports, the 35-year-old has already said goodbye to his teammates. Curiously, Kruse used a WhatsApp group message for this.
The article in full (quoted via “RevierSport”):
“Guys, unfortunately I didn’t see all of you yesterday: That’s why I’m saying goodbye to everyone I didn’t see yesterday. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out the way I or the club had imagined, but that’s how it is That sometimes happens in football! You’re a great bunch, it was a lot of fun. Definitely keep it that way. I wouldn’t say I’m a Paderborn fan now, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed for you – especially for the cup game Leverkusen. Everything is possible. Wish each and every one of you all the best and, as we all know, you always see each other twice in your life. Until then – all the best.”
It is unclear whether Kruse will continue his career after his quick exit in Paderborn. The veteran has been struggling with injuries for a long time and his match fitness has noticeably suffered as a result.
Kruse, who is considered an enfant terrible, appeared in a total of 307 Bundesliga matches (97 goals, 79 assists). The creative mind played 14 international matches for the German national soccer team (four goals).