Leverkusen coach Carles Martinez organized football at his own wedding

Carles Martinez, the new head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, brought his passion for football to his own wedding, inviting guests to bring their soccer shoes. "On the invitation, it said: Don't forget your football shoes!" the Spaniard told the "Süddeutsche Zeitung." He recounted organizing five-a-side games during the ceremony, even wearing a suit, captain's armband, and football boots.

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On the invitation, it said: Don't forget your football shoes!

Martinez, 42, joined Leverkusen this summer after successful years with FC Toulouse. He is committed to his new role, having signed a two-year contract until summer 2028. "I am learning German, practicing every evening with an online app," he said. "But since my arrival, I've had hardly any free time. My priority is to succeed with the club. We are playing in the Bundesliga, Europa League, and the cup."

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We then set up a small field and organized games. Five against five, a few minutes each. I wore a suit, tie, captain's armband - and football boots.

While Martinez dreams of coaching in his native Spain someday, his immediate focus is on Bayer Leverkusen. "But I say from the heart: My dream, here and now, is to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for years to come," he stated. The team begins its season with a cup match against SV Wehen Wiesbaden, followed by a Bundesliga opener against promoted side SV Elversberg on August 29.

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I am learning German, practicing every evening with an online app. But since my arrival, I've had hardly any free time. My priority is to succeed with the club. We are playing in the Bundesliga, Europa League, and the cup.