Toni Leistner has joined SV Viktoria Potsdam after bringing his professional career at Hertha BSC to a surprising close, the club announced on Instagram on September 28, 2026. The central defender has established his new primary residence in Potsdam and opted to continue playing for the club’s first team rather than hang up his boots completely.
Toni Leistner Moves to SV Viktoria Potsdam After Hertha BSC Departure
The former Bundesliga professional joins SV Viktoria Potsdam’s first team immediately. SV Viktoria Potsdam stated that Leistner brings extensive experience from a long professional career that spanned several major German and international clubs, including Dynamo Dresden, 1. FC Union Berlin, Queens Park Rangers, 1. FC Köln, Hamburger SV, and Hertha BSC.
During his stint with Hertha BSC in the 2. Bundesliga, Leistner served as team captain for two seasons and wore the armband on the pitch. His arrival in Potsdam follows the conclusion of his professional tenure with the Berlin club.
Injury Crisis at Viktoria Potsdam Accelerates the Transfer
SV Viktoria Potsdam completed the signing to address an urgent personnel shortage in their squad. The club confirmed that long-term injuries to Marcel Hadel, Tobias Francisco, and Julian Bache left the team short-handed in defense.
Club officials noted that Leistner arrives at the exact right moment to stabilize the squad.

A Storied Career Across England and Germany
Leistner’s journey through professional football includes significant stints across the English Football League and the German professional tiers. After rising through the ranks at Dynamo Dresden, he established himself as a physical defensive stalwart at 1. FC Union Berlin before moving abroad to Queens Park Rangers in the EFL Championship.
Subsequent spells at 1. FC Köln and Hamburger SV preceded his leadership role as captain of Hertha BSC.
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