
The fact the Werkself have opted to retain one of the most crucial players of recent years over the long term is, for CEO Michael Schade, "a clear signal to the team and the fans. Lars is a role model. Over the years at the club, he has attained a special status at Bayer 04 through excellent performances, outstanding commitment and his down-to-earth and honest approach," declared Schade.
And sporting director Rudi Völler emphasised the significance of the man from Rosenheim: "Lars is a top player, one of the best in his position in Germany – but not just because of his outstanding qualities on the pitch. Lars is extremely important as a determined and strong-minded leader of a young and hungry team. He gives the team security, structure and stability."
Lars Bender has been at Bayer 04 since the 2009/10 season. "Over all that time, the club has always supported me in good and bad times and, above all, stood by me when I was battling with serious injuries. I'm very grateful for that," said Bender. "It's important for me to feel good and have a functioning environment where my strengths are valued and where I have everything I need, including on the personal front. There is a lot of mutual trust. I now feel part of this club and part of its history,which we all want to see continue to be successful into the future."


The Werkself welcome FC Augsburg to the BayArena on Bundesliga matchday 30 in the 2025/26 season. The match on Saturday, 18 April kicks off at 15:30 CEST. Bayer 04 have organised a family matchday with exclusive offers for parents and children. Information on ticket sales.
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The Werkself host VfL Wolfsburg at the BayArena on matchday 28 in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season. The match is on Saturday, 4 April, with the kick-off at 15:30 CET. Information on ticket sales.
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The exact timings for the 2025/26 DFB Pokal semi-finals have been finalised. Bayer 04's home tie against Bayern Munich will be played on Wednesday, 22 April, at 20:45 CEST. This was announced by the German Football Association (DFB) this Monday morning.
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It was the end of the road for the #B04eSports team against SC Freiburg. Marc and Sean Landwehr were narrowly defeated by the top favourites in the quarter-finals of the VBL Club Championship Final 2025/26. After a success in the first 1v1 game (4-2) and a subsequent defeat (0-4), the overall goals tally ultimately decided who progressed to the semi-finals in the clash against the league leaders from the previous phase.
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