Craig Butler: Managerial change great for Leon Bailey
January 18, 2019
Leon Bailey’s stepfather Craig Butler, who is also the winger’s agent, believes the recent change in manager at Bayer Leverkusen will help his stepson get back on track after a frustrating season so far.
Jamaica international Bailey made his senior debut for Leverkusen in the 2016/17 season although it was the following campaign when he really made his mark, scoring nine goals from 30 Bundesliga appearances.
The 21-year-old’s impressive performances caught the attention of numerous top European clubs, including Premier League outfit Chelsea and defending European champions Real Madrid.
Bayer were able to keep hold of their rising star last summer but he has been handed a limited number of opportunities this term, with just eight league starts to his name.
Heiko Herrlich preferred other options in his squad before he was sacked on December 23, with the club citing bad results and poor overall management as reasons for his departure.
Ex-Borussia Dortmund boss Peter Bosz had since taken the reins and Butler is certain the change will benefit Bailey, who is still being tracked by Europe’s elite.
“I am very happy that this change has come about,” he told SportBild.
“Leon did not develop under Heiko Herrlich. For Leon it is very important that he enjoys football, he lives alone in Germany, the family is in Jamaica, and if Leon does not have fun, it kills him.
“Top clubs have come forward, Real and Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Roma, and in recent months they have been surprised that Leon plays so seldom, wondering why a top league player like him is suddenly sitting on the bench.”
Bosz will take charge of his first competitive game on Saturday when Leverkusen play host to Borussia Monchengladbach and the Dutch tactician’s men are 2.05 favourites to win. The draw is 3.75 and the visitors are a 3.40 chance.
