The 2023/24 Bundesliga winners secured the championship by defeating Werder Bremen 5-0. However, the River Islanders played without midfielder Naby Keita, who refused to board the team bus after learning he was not included in Ole Werner’s starting XI. Club managing director Clemens Fritz confirmed the situation and stated that they would discuss the consequences with Keita and his advisor. Ole Werner expressed his displeasure with the situation, emphasizing that there would be repercussions.
He mentioned that he had not yet spoken to Keita but intended to address the issue soon. In response to the accusations, Naby Keita took to Instagram to deny the claims and clarify his commitment to the club. He emphasized his professionalism and dedication to helping the club and its supporters during a challenging period of poor results.