- FC Union Berlin have confirmed that Danilho Doekhi, Diogo Leite, and Alex Král will depart the club when their contracts expire at the end of the current season. The Bundesliga side announced the departures on Thursday, alongside those of goalkeeping coach Michael Gspurning and physiotherapist Silvio Thieme.
Doekhi and Leite have formed a consistent central defensive partnership for Union over the past four seasons, becoming integral members of the team. Doekhi has made 136 appearances for the club, while Leite has featured in 135 matches, both establishing themselves as regular starters. Their departures represent a significant loss of experience and stability at the back for Union.
Král initially joined Union on loan from Spartak Moscow in 2023, making the move permanent shortly after. The midfielder has gone on to make 53 appearances for the club, contributing to Union’s midfield options. His exit further impacts Union’s squad depth as they prepare for the next campaign.
Union Berlin have experienced a challenging season in the Bundesliga, currently sitting in the mid-table after a strong performance last year which saw them qualify for the Champions League. The club will be looking to rebuild and strengthen their squad during the summer transfer window, and the departures of these three players will free up space in the wage bill and allow for new signings. The club confirmed all five departing figures will receive a farewell before Saturday’s match against Augsburg.
The exits of Doekhi and Leite, in particular, will require Union to invest in defensive reinforcements. Finding suitable replacements for two established centre-backs will be a key priority for the club’s sporting director as they look to return to challenging for European qualification. Král’s departure adds another layer to the midfield rebuild, potentially opening the door for a more dynamic player in that position.
