Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand paid tribute to former Denmark boss Sepp Piontek on Friday following his death this week.
Piontek was a German who coached Denmark to their first World Cup in 1986. Hjulmand in contrast is a Dane trying to make his way in German football.
"He was a great German coach in Denmark. He will always remain in our memories. My thoughts are with his family," Hjulmand told a news conference after the 85-year-old passed away.
"He had a significant influence on Danish football. It was incredible."
Leverkusen head to Union Berlin on Saturday in good form. They have conceded just two goals in seven games, including Wednesday's 2-0 Champions League play-off first leg win at Olympiacos Piraeus.
The Werkself sit sixth in the Bundesliga with a game in hand on their top-four rivals.
"Union have a lot of quality, a super team and a structured style of play. We are going to Berlin with a lot of excitement," Hjulmand said.
"We have a good feeling from our past seven games. This game is a difficult challenge and it's an emotional stadium to play in. We are really looking forward to it."