Former Bayer Leverkusen coach Sascha Lewandowski has been found dead at his home in Bochum, Germany, aged 44.
Lewandowski died on Wednesday, his former club Union Berlin said in a statement, with no cause of death given.
“We are deeply shocked and incredibly sad. Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Sascha Lewandowski,” said club president Dirk Zingler.
The 44-year-old was joint head coach of Leverkusen from 2012 until 2013, before taking complete charge in 2014 – then going on to manage 2. Bundesliga side Union Berlin.
Lewandowski left his role at the capital club in March, after six months in charge, on medical advice because of acute fatigue syndrome.
After taking charge of Union Berlin, Lewandowski led the club to five victories, four draws and five losses between September 2015 and March 2015.
Only Pep Guardiola (2.52) won more points per Bundesliga match than Lewandowski (2.04), according to Opta.
Tributes
Bayer Leverkusen tweeted: “A very sad day in Leverkusen. Former coach Sascha Lewandowski has died. Our thoughts go out to his loved ones. RIP.”
Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller also paid tribute to their former manager, saying: “We can scarcely believe that Sascha is dead. He was a great man who brought all his strength and passion to his work.”
Bayern Munich tweeted their condolences: “The death of Sascha Lewandowski is a shock to us all. Our thoughts are with all his friends and family.”
Borussia Mönchengladbach tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to hear of Sascha Lewandowski’s death. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and loved ones. Rest in peace.”
Werder Bremen tweeted: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Sascha Lewandowski, who has sadly passed away.”
Schalke 04 tweeted: “S04 are mourning the loss of Sascha Lewandowski, an endearing human being, who gave football so much. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.”