Leipzig and Leverkusen Clash with Mintzlaff-Carro History in Spotlight

LEIPZIG, Germany — When RB Leipzig hosts Bayer Leverkusen in a Bundesliga top match on Saturday, the spotlight will not only be on the pitch but also on the intriguing history between Leipzig’s supervisory board member Oliver Mintzlaff and Leverkusen’s CEO Fernando Carro.

The two executives share a unique backstory: Mintzlaff, 49, nearly became Leverkusen’s boss in 2018. Following Michael Schade’s retirement, Mintzlaff, then CEO of RB Leipzig, emerged as a top candidate for the role. He even met with Bayer’s chief controller Werner Wenning, 78, with whom he maintains an excellent relationship to this day.

“I felt honored by Bayer’s interest,” Mintzlaff said, reflecting on the opportunity. However, the former athlete chose to remain in Leipzig, citing unfinished business with RB. Leverkusen eventually appointed Carro, 60, who was recruited from Bertelsmann with the help of a headhunter.

The decision proved fruitful for both parties. Mintzlaff has since risen to become the corporate boss of Red Bull, while remaining connected to RB Leipzig as an honorary supervisory board member. Carro, meanwhile, led Leverkusen to a historic double last season, winning both the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal.

Saturday’s match is crucial for Leipzig, who are aiming to reclaim fourth place in the Champions League standings. The sold-out Red Bull Arena will host over 2,000 VIPs, with fans eager to see a repeat of their team’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory in the first leg.

Leipzig coach Marco Rose, 48, emphasized the importance of a top performance. “We need to be sharp in all areas,” he said. “Controlling the ball will be key. If things get a bit wild, that might actually work in our favor. I expect us to be ready, and I hope it will be an exciting story.”

As the teams prepare to face off, the Mintzlaff-Carro connection adds an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a thrilling encounter.