Bundesliga: Karim Bellarabi set to part ways with Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen have announced that Karim Bellarabi will depart from the club at the conclusion of the season.

The 33-year-old winger's contract will not be extended, after spending 12 years at the Bundesliga outfit.

Should he receive an enticing offer and his physical condition permits, Bellarabi may consider continuing his career outside of Europe.

"It has been a truly incredible time for me," said Bellarabi.

"I have experienced great things and played fantastic games for this club. I have grown so fond of Bayer 04 that this well-considered step still hurts very, very much."

Bellarabi signed for Leverkusen from Eintracht Braunschweig on a free transfer. He has since made 290 appearances and scored 57 goals, while providing 66 assists.

"Karim has been an outstanding Bundesliga player for many years and has always been a sporting figurehead for the club," commented Bayer Leverkusen managing director for sport Simon Rolfes.

"I had the pleasure of playing with him myself. His runs were as feared by opponents as his dangerous shooting ability. After so many years with the Bayer jersey, I wish him all the best.

"It is a great shame that Karim will have to watch the final games of the season from the stands due to his injury. But he will be close to us and give us all his support.

"Also for Karim, we will try to reach the final of the Europa League against AS Rom on Thursday. He has always been an important part of the team - Karim has more than earned this crowning moment in his Werkself career."