Lee Hendrie, a respected football pundit, has suggested that Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl could be on the verge of a return to his native Germany, with a move to the Bundesliga likely this summer. Rohl, who kept the Owls in the Championship and guided them to a mid-table 12th-place finish this season, saw his efforts marred by off-field drama. His relationship with club owner Dejphon Chansiri soured after he was denied a move to Southampton last December, sparking a very public fallout.
Speculation about Rohl’s future has intensified in recent weeks. Earlier this month, he drew the ire of Wednesday fans after an interview where he openly discussed potential next steps in his career. Many supporters felt those comments were ill-timed and disrespectful, given that Rohl remains under contract at Hillsborough.
Although Southampton had been heavily linked with the 36-year-old coach, they ultimately appointed Will Still as their new manager. Leicester City was also rumored to be interested, but the Foxes now look set to hire Russell Martin instead. There were whispers of interest from Premier League clubs Fulham and Crystal Palace, but neither is expected to change managers this summer. Meanwhile, despite reported interest from RB Leipzig, no official talks have taken place between Rohl and the Bundesliga giants.
According to journalist Rob Staton, Rohl held encouraging discussions with Werder Bremen, who were genuinely interested in securing his services. However, their pursuit stalled due to his steep £5 million release clause, a fee considered excessive by the German club.
In an exclusive interview with Football League World, Lee Hendrie expressed his belief that Rohl has what it takes to drive Sheffield Wednesday forward—but only with proper backing. He doubted whether owner Chansiri would provide the necessary support and predicted Rohl might seek a fresh challenge in the Bundesliga. Hendrie acknowledged that Rohl has impressed during his time in England, both in terms of personality and coaching ability, but suggested the manager’s ambitions might force his hand.
Hendrie also speculated that a Premier League move is unlikely for Rohl this summer. Instead, he could land a role at a top-end Championship club or return to Germany. Hendrie mentioned that clubs like Norwich might be a better fit if they allow Rohl the autonomy to shape the squad. Ultimately, he expects the German coach to take his talents back to the Bundesliga.
As things stand, with the Southampton, Leicester, and Werder Bremen opportunities now closed, Rohl’s options appear to be narrowing. However, all hope is not lost—three Bundesliga clubs (Augsburg, Cologne, and Wolfsburg) are still without managers. Wolfsburg, in particular, has been linked with interest. Additionally, teams in the German second tier, including Hannover 96 and Schalke, could present viable alternatives.
Still, there is a looming concern. German clubs are often hesitant to pay hefty compensation fees for managers, and Rohl’s high release clause may continue to be a stumbling block. If a move doesn’t materialize, there’s a growing sense that Rohl might come to regret the breakdown in his relationship with Sheffield Wednesday—especially if he’s left with limited opportunities come the start of the new season.
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