The funeral of former Hannover and Germany goalkeeper Robert Enke, who committed suicide on Tuesday, will be held on Sunday.
A public service held inside Hannover’s Niedersachsen Stadion at 11am local time where the complete Germany national team will also be present, along with up to 49,000 mourners, will precede the private funeral.
Hannover club president Martin Kind confirmed that he anticipates large numbers to pay their respect.
“We are preparing for the eventuality of the stadium being full,” said Kind.
Over 35,000 people staged a march through the city on Wednesday night in remembrance of the 32-year-old,.
Germany’s friendly match against Chile scheduled for Saturday and Hannover are considering the postponement of their Bundesliga fixture with Schalke on 21st November.
“It is not yet certain, but we are considering the possibility,” admitted Hannover’s general manager Jorg Schmadtke who also spoke of how Enke’s tragic death, which followed his battle with depression, should serve to take the stigma out of a widespread illness.
“The tragedy of Robert Enke gives us reason to consider certain things which are common in our society and are simply accepted as such,” he told NDR television, who broadcast a special programme in remembrance of Enke on Wednesday.
“Robert has given us a challenge that we are now obliged to think about.”
Christmas special offer – Subscribe to World Soccer magazine today and Save up to 32%
