"In Andrey Lunev we have brought in an experienced keeper. In his four years at Zenit, he has won the Russian league title three times and the cup once. And with seven international caps, 17 Europa League and to Champions League matches, Andrey also has international experience," declared Bayer 04 sporting director Simon Rolfes. "He will strengthen our squad with his proven quality and experience on the pitch."
The 1.93 metre tall Lunev expressed his "excitement at being able to play in such a strong league as the Bundesliga. I was very impressed that Bayer 04 showed interest in me," said Lunev. "Now I'm part of a club that has been one of the best in Germany for years and has gained a strong reputation in Russia through their consistent presence in European competitions. I will do all I can to give my absolute best at Leverkusen."
Former Bundesliga and Germany keeper Manfred Manglitz, who was promoted to the Oberliga West with Bayer 04 in 1962, passed away on Monday at the age of 86.
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The FIFA World Cup 2026 in the USA, Canada and Mexico is underway. A total of eight Leverkusen players are taking part in the 23rd World Cup, with 48 teams in the tournament for the first time. Bayer04.de brings you all the latest from Werkself players at the World Cup.
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Following the summer break of around two months, the Bayer 04 first team squad took to the training pitches at the BayArena for the first time on Tuesday – and the players were in high spirits. Alongside the newly formed coaching team led by head coach Carles Martínez, new signing Afonso Moreira also completed his first session with the squad. In front of several hundred Bayer 04 fans at the open session, numerous Werkself players worked up a good sweat. The Leverkusen players who took part in the World Cup will join pre-season training at a later date.
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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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