New Leverkusen coach Martinez vows to play aggressive football

Bayer Leverkusen new coach Carles Martinez Novell was officially presented on Friday and introduced himself with plenty of energy, clear ideas, and a commitment to attacking football.

"Our opponents should feel that Leverkusen is a great club," he said in a news conference.

Martinez is replacing Kasper Hjulmand, who was dismissed after he failed to secure a spot in the Champions League for next season.

Martinez vowed to play an aggressive and attacking of football, putting pressure on the opponents and controlling the ball.

"When you have the ball, you're better and you can create more," he said.

He stressed that he also places great importance on personal interaction with his players: "I want every player to feel important.

"I'd like to get started with the players right away, today, immediately, but we still have to wait and be patient."

Leverkusen are to start their pre-season camp in July and a first friendly match is scheduled for July 18 against SF Baumberg.