Cedric Harenbrock is leaving Rot-Weiss Essen after seven years at the club. The 26-year-old was a key player for the team in the past season, with 37 league appearances and contributing eight goals and five assists. The club's sports director, Marcus Steegmann, described the decision as 'painful', stating that they would have liked to keep Harenbrock. However, he also expressed understanding for Harenbrock's desire to see something new after such a long time. Harenbrock himself said the decision was very difficult due to his deep connection with the club and its fans, but he felt the time had come for a change.