When he took to the field in the starting line-up against FC Bayern München, Makoto Hasebe wrote a new chapter in Eintracht history, becoming the oldest outfield player – at the age of 39 years and 10 days – to play for SGE in a Bundesliga match. His appearance took him past the previous record-holder Richard Kress, who was 38 years, 11 months and 23 days old when he played for the Eagles back on 29 September 1964.
“Hase is calm personified, and that really helps against opponents like these,” said board member for sport Markus Krösche after the match at the Allianz Arena. “I can hardly find the words to describe him anymore – he’s incredible. His experience gives us such a sense of stability.”
