Bild reports that Leonardo Bittencourt is starting training with Energie Cottbus after moving from Werder Bremen. The move is described as a return to his homeland and to Energie Cottbus. It is reported that Bittencourt had other offers but chose to join the club. His father Franklin and a financially strong supporter supported the transfer.

Leonardo Bittencourt, who decided to return to Energie Cottbus, stated that a phone call with the coach was very important for him. He explained that at the time of the call, it was actually already certain that he would leave Germany, as there were exciting options in Greece and Spain that he and his family found conceivable. Bittencourt said they wanted to try something completely new and go on an adventure. He added that it was only a short phone call, but the coach captivated him with his ideas, energy, and enthusiasm, which made him reconsider. Bittencourt explained that he had the best overall feeling at Cottbus from a sporting, personal, and family perspective. He mentioned that they know the city, the people, and the club, and that his wife's family lives there, which contributes to a feeling of coming home. Bittencourt is foregoing salary for the transfer and is to be integrated into the management at Cottbus after his playing career.

Leonardo Bittencourt completed a medical examination at Zweitliga-Aufsteiger Energie Cottbus on Thursday morning. The deal was confirmed one hour after an exclusive report from BILD. Bittencourt expressed his emotional connection to Cottbus and stated that for him this transfer is something very special, that he began his professional football career there as a boy, and that being able to return now causes him great joy and pride.

Energie Cottbus has officially confirmed Leonardo Bittencourt's transfer. Bittencourt is scheduled to have his medical with the club soon, and a transfer fee will not be paid because his contract with Werder concludes at the end of June. It is reported that for the move, Bittencourt is relinquishing a substantial portion of his former salary. ‘Bild’ reports that he is planned to be integrated into management following his professional career.