With an ad-hoc announcement on Thursday, listed company Borussia Dortmund GmbH & Co. KGaA made Mats Hummels’ request public – to leave eight-time German champions BVB in the summer and join Bayern Munich for the new season. We spoke to Hans-Joachim Watzke, BVB President and CEO, about the current state of affairs.

Herr Watzke, news of Mats Hummels’ transfer request is dominating the headlines. How would you assess the reaction of the fans?

I can understand the disappointment of many of the fans, it’s exactly the same for me. Yet it’s very important to make it clear that Mats has behaved impeccably. He has always been open and completely honest with us!

On Saturday, BVB will take on VfL Wolfsburg at the Signal Iduna Park in the penultimate home match of a fantastic season. What kind of reception would you like Mats Hummels to get?

I’d be delighted if the disappointment of the BVB supporters isn’t expressed through hostility towards Mats Hummels. He certainly would not deserve such treatment after eight and a half years in the midst of an incredible story at the club. Additionally we are currently on a home stretch with promising prospects. In terms of total points, this could still be the best BVB season of all time and we can still bring the DFB cup home in the final against Bayern Munich on the 21st May.

BVB’s published statement was not an official transfer request. Mats Hummels still has a valid contract until the 30th June 2017, without a get-out clause. What is the situation as it currently stands?

There have been no new developments. Mandatory requirements for a transfer would be that Bayern Munich meets our demands. But to be perfectly honest, I can’t see that happening just yet…