When Charles Aránguiz went off on 77 minutes supported by team doctor Dr. Philipp Ehrenstein and physio Sven Elsinger it did not look good and there was a certain anxiety in the air. However, worries about a possible serious injury to the midfielder fortunately proved to be unfounded. Aránguiz only suffered a bruised shin and he is able to join the Chile squad for the international break.
Bernd Leno has also received the green light to join the Germany squad after the goalkeeper was hit in the face from a point blank shot by Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Oscar Wendt. “I’m fine but everything was checked today as a precaution. I’m looking forward to joining the national squad on Monday and then there some important games coming up for Bayer 04,” said the keeper who produced an excellent display at Borussia Park.
Ömer Toprak, who had to go off just before the end of the game at Gladbach with all the substitutes used, has been given the all clear. The central defender has not suffered a serious muscle injury.
Today sees Bayer 04 go head-to-head with their next direct rivals in the race for Champions League qualification (kick-off 15:30 CEST). Opponents Stuttgart are currently fifth in the table, level on points with the Werkself but one place below them due to a three-goal inferior goal difference. The Black and Reds' record at Bad Cannstatt tells a clearer story: they've not lost at VfB for over 16 years. One important factor in securing what would be three crucial points away from home is Leverkusen's strength on the counter-attack. Whilst Stuttgart are also extremely dangerous going forward, they will be without their captain. Today’s matchday news.
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Another showdown in the race for the Champions League places takes place in Swabia: on Saturday 9 May (kick-off 15:30 CEST), the Werkself visit VfB Stuttgart, who are only behind on goal difference. In his pre-match press conference, head coach Kasper Hjulmand spoke about confidence, excitement and mentality.
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Reinforcement in attack: Bayer 04 Leverkusen have secured the transfer of striker Maja Sternad from Bundesliga rivals SV Werder Bremen. The 22-year-old has signed a contract until 30 June 2028.
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It's a thrilling situation: as the season draws to a close, Stuttgart and Bayer 04 are heading into the home stretch almost neck and neck. After 32 games, with 17 wins, seven draws and eight defeats each, both teams are on 58 points. Even in terms of goals scored, VfB and the Werkself are level on 66. The Black and Reds have conceded just three fewer goals (43) than their rivals (46), which is why they sit one place behind fourth-placed Leverkusen. This Saturday, 9 May (kick-off: 15.30 CEST), the two teams go head to head at the MHP Arena in Stuttgart. The lowdown on our next opponents.
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