Kevin Kampl bids tearful farewell to RB Leipzig
Kevin Kampl donated 4,444 litres of beer to RB Leipzig fans as he bid an emotional farewell to the club ahead of their Matchday 18 fixture against Bayern Munich.
At the start of January, it was announced that Kampl would leave by mutual consent due to "personal reasons", with his official send-off scheduled to take place before kick-off against Bayern on Saturday.
As a token of his appreciation to Leipzig fans after more than eight years at the Red Bull Arena, the 35-year-old donated 4,444 litres of local beer brand Ur-Krostitzer in a nod to his shirt number, 44.
Speaking to the Leipzig supporters from the pitch before the game, the former Slovenia international said, "Dear fans, first and foremost, I would like to thank you for the eight and a half wonderful years that I was able to play here. You gave me a home. I felt so comfortable from day one, also with my family. It [the Red Bull Arena] was my living room.”
“You have always had my back. We have celebrated successes, we have overcome lows – but always as a unit. I am extremely grateful to you for always seeing me as one of you."
Leipzig supervisory board chairman Oliver Mintzlaff joined Kampl on the pitch for his goodbye, adding, "You are a personality who has helped shape this club. Take the time you need, especially during this difficult phase. Then you will always be very welcome here."
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