
"We have invited our first team players here today to show the team what Bayer is all about and what our company actually does. The team should experience our scientific work with all their senses today," explained communications director Sonja Diewerge.
The Bayer 04 players spent an hour in small groups finding out about the different work areas of Bayer AG via lectures, films and interactive exhibits. The workshops provided the opportunity to test body scanners or experiment using test tubes to determine pH values.
Heiko Herrlich and Kai Havertz additionally had the chance to get to know their bodies a bit better. With the help of Bayer employees, the Werkself head coach was able to identify his own DNA in an experiment. The youngster Kai Havertz slipped into a so-called ageing suit that enabled the 18-year-old to appreciate the typical limitations experienced by older people such as impaired vision or reduction in strength. In spite of the circumstances, Kai Havertz still showed his above-average talent by demonstrating his ball control.

In mid-August, the Werkself will set off on a four-day trip to England to play their final two friendly matches of the 2026/27 pre-season against Premier League clubs Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United. The match in Nottingham against the Tricky Trees is on Wednesday 12 August at 20:45 CEST (19:45 BST) at the City Ground. The game against the Magpies in Newcastle is on Saturday 15 August at 16:00 CEST (15:00 BST) at the atmospheric St James’ Park. Details on ticket sales for both matches.
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Black and Red talent development at the highest level – even off the pitch: Apprentices Jule Suermann, Leandra Bellia and Julia Niederheide have successfully completed their two- or three-year apprenticeships at the club. Bayer 04 honoured the trio at the BayArena on Tuesday.
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The Werkself return tomorrow, Tuesday 14 July (from 11:00 CEST at the BayArena; live stream on bayer04.de, the Bayer 04 app and YouTube), with new head coach Carles Martínez leading his first training session as part of the Bayer 04 set-up. His coaching team comprises a mix of new and long-standing colleagues.
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The Germany U19 team were beaten 2-0 by record champions Spain in the final of the U19 European Championship in Wales. Bayer 04 players Montrell Culbreath and Francis Onyeka (on loan at SV 07 Elversberg) were in the starting line-up and played the full 90 minutes.
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