“We’re very happy that Philipp has extended his contract with us long term. He’s been a crucial part of our team for years and now that’s set to continue,” explains Frank Baumann, Werder’s sporting director before adding that “Bargi’s” role at the club going forward will not be limited to just playing: “Philipp has also accepted a further offer from us to take part in a trainee program at the club. When that will happen and in which particular area it will happen is yet to be decided.” 

“I’m really happy that Werder have given me the opportunity to get to know what it’s like on the other side of a football club after my playing career is done and dusted. That won’t happen for a few years yet though I hope. Firstly, I want to be out there playing and help the team to get better,” says Bargfrede, who will start his 15th season at Werder Bremen in the summer. “I’ve built up a special relationship with this club. I grew up here, made my way to the first team and have my friends and family around me - I feel very comfortable here. It didn’t take very long for me to come to the decision.”

Head coach Florian Kohfeldt is also pleased to hear that the 29-year-old will be here to stay: “I don’t need to say how valuable Philipp is to this team. He has been an important building block for us for years - not only on the pitch, but also in the dressing room. With his experience and his personality, I’m sure that he will be fantastic asset for the club after he calls an end to his playing career.”    

Philipp Bargfrede arrived at the Werder academy in 2004 and made the jump to the Bundesliga squad in 2008. He was a part of the squad that won the DFB-Pokal in 2009 and has made a total of around 200 appearances for the Green-Whites.