Experience from Dortmund 

The 19-year-old Leonardo Bittencourt was in Borussia Dortmund’s Bundesliga squad 14 times last season, making five appearances (1 goal, 1 assist). He even has a Champions League and a DFB-Pokal appearance to his name. Bittencourt moved to Dortmund from FC Energie Cottbus in the 2012/13 season. He made 30 appearances (two goals) for Dortmund's second team as well as being involved for Germany’s U20 team. Bittencourt has both a German and a Brazilian passport and in 2012/13 he played five games, scored two goals and assisted three for the Germany youth team.


 Dufner confident at signing

Hannover’s sporting director Dirk Dufner was incredibly optimistic about the fourth, new arrival: “We are confident about Leo Bittencourt’s arrival because he comes to us in great condition and with a number of skills. He will strengthen our team. He picked up invaluable experience with Champions-League finalists Borussia Dortmund last season. He represents our transfer policy. We want to keep our team young whilst continue to invest in individual quality.”

Slomka and Bittencourt pleased with the move

Manager Mirko Slomka is also delighted to see his attack boosted: “I’m really pleased about this deal with Dortmund. Leonardo decided very early on that he wanted to come to 96 and wants to show his worth in the Bundesliga. We’ve got ourselves a fast player that can dribble with the ball.”

Leonardo Bittencourt’s thoughts on the move: “I am a passionate footballer and my main desire is to show what I can do as often as possible. I have a really good feeling that Hannover is the right stage for me to be on. My mate André Hoffmann is proof of how well young players can find their place in the 96-team. That is my goal as well.”