Ludovit Reis has addressed his controversial transfer to Werder Bremen and his ongoing affection for HSV. The 26-year-old Dutch midfielder joined Werder on a free transfer from Club Brugge in August, signing a contract until 2029. In a report by Bild Sport this week, the former FC Barcelona player spoke openly about the emotional rollercoaster.
Why the transfer caused such controversy
Ludovit Reis became a fan favourite at Hamburger SV. Between 2021 and 2025, he made 129 competitive appearances for HSV, scoring 20 goals and providing 13 assists. His contribution to the 2025 Bundesliga promotion, scoring in the decisive 6-1 victory over Ulm, etched his name into club folklore. His subsequent move to Brugge for a fee of six to seven million euros was accepted, but the direct switch to northern rivals Werder Bremen this summer sparked massive outrage among parts of the HSV support. Reis says he understands these reactions.
How Reis deals with the online hate
The anger of many HSV fans manifested in massive insults and vilification on social networks. "There is a 100% clear line," Reis states, referring to attacks targeting his family. Otherwise, he describes himself as 'not a big social media type' and takes criticism in his stride. He received support from both clubs: Werder's sporting director Clemens Fritz and his HSV counterpart Claus Costa publicly defended the player against the online abuse. Reis presented himself at Werder confidently in a training jersey and emphasized his comfort in the new environment.
Where Reis fits at Werder now
His full focus is now on Bundesliga side Werder Bremen, who currently sit tenth in the table with three points from two matches. Coach Ole Werner's team has scored four goals and conceded five, resulting in a negative goal difference of minus one. They trail leaders FC Augsburg by three points. Reis must integrate into a squad dealing with personnel shortages: Felix Agu, Jens Stage, Justin Njinmah, Eren Dinkçi and Senne Lynen are currently sidelined with injuries. The current squad overview shows the need in midfield.
What the Nordderby date signifies
A particular highlight on the calendar is the Nordderby against HSV in late November at the Weserstadion. For Reis, this match will be an emotional return, though he stresses he will act professionally. "I would be lying if I claimed I no longer love HSV," the Dutchman admitted frankly. Simultaneously, his focus is 100 percent on Werder Bremen, where he aims to play regularly again after a shoulder injury limited him to just 12 appearances in Brugge. First, an away match against 1. FC Köln awaits on September 12, with Köln currently in 11th place. You can find the complete fixtures list for the season on our website. Ludovit Reis is expected to make his Werder debut in the coming weeks once he is fully integrated into the team.
