Jona, eight days ago you were playing in front of 50,000 fans at Ibrox. Now it feels like we're in a completely different time.
Definitely. The situation has changed completely. But we've got to make the best of things and try to deal with it to the best of our ability.
What's your daily routine at the moment?
It mainly consist of training sessions – I have to keep fit at the end of the day: weight training, mobility exercises. At the moment, I still go running outside. If we're not allowed to go out then I'll use a treadmill. I've got somebody with me for training to make sure I push myself to the limit and beyond – it would be too tough on my own.
What's particularly important at this time?
I'm no fan of panic as that can lead you to making wrong decisions in a situation like this. We should remain calm but be aware of the situation nevertheless. In general, we all need each other in these difficult times and we should show respect for others.
You've taken an active role and committed yourself to being a private donor to the Sepp Herberger Foundation at the DFB. How did that come about?
My thinking behind it was: I'll be the first to donate so I won't be the last. I'd like to inspire people to donate as well and play their part. At the same time, it's not at all about how much it is or just about donating money. You can also donate your time, for example by helping people with their shopping.
You live with your girlfriend and you keep in contact with members of your family via technical means. How is communication with each other at the moment?
In general, it's less about me getting infected. It's much more important to me that I don't infect anybody. I make sure I wash and disinfect my hands often. If I go for a run outside then I don't touch anything. I wouldn’t like anybody to have health problems because of me. My girlfriend is equally careful. Everybody should be alert and follow the rules.
Monster Energy has been a partner in the Sponsors Club at Bayer 04 Leverkusen since the start of the 2023/24 season. Monster Energy has shown their products at Werkself home games on the LED advertising hoardings at the BayArena. Monster Energy activated the next stage of the partnership with the current Bundesliga league leaders for Bayer 04’s home game against Union Berlin in the middle of November. Monster Energy will continue to present themselves as a reliable and ambitious partner to Leverkusen fans through similar promotional events as at the game against Union Berlin.
Show moreBayer 04 involvement with the ‘Kältegang Leverkusen’ project continues this winter. The current Bundesliga league leaders and their fans again presented financial and in-kind donations to the homeless charity at home game against Borussia Dortmund (1-1).
Show moreThe Werkself remain unbeaten after the 1-1 draw with Borussia Dortmund on Bundesliga Matchday 13. The one-sided game demanded a lot of strength of nerve and competitive spirit from Xabi Alonso's team. In the end, Victor Boniface rewarded the relentless attacking efforts of the league leaders against passive but efficient visitors. The Werkself review.
Show moreBayer 04 were held to a 1-1 draw by Borussia Dortmund on Matchday 13 in the Bundesliga. Julian Ryerson had put the visitors in front at a sold-out BayArena after only five minutes. Leverkusen would go on to dominate proceedings and finally get their deserved equaliser through Victor Boniface in the 79th minute. It’s a result that extends the Werkself’s unbeaten run in all competitions this season to 20 matches.
Show moreFor the 17th time, Bayer 04 Sportförderung gGmbH has awarded the Volunteers Award for outstanding commitment to football in Leverkusen and the surrounding region. The three outstanding clubs in 2023 are BSV Roleber 1919, TuS 05 Oberpleis and SV 1924 Glehn. They will each receive prize money of €5,000.
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