Power training, technique, stretching and letting the ball run – was what the numerous spectators, and currently out of contract coach Markus Weinzierl, were able to observe on Wednesday. Julian Baumgartlinger today trained one-to-one with fitness coach Daniel 'Giga' Jouvin as he tested out his ankle with constant passing drills. "Today's session was relatively relaxed. After yesterday I had a few aches and pains to deal with but overall the same applies to most of the others," said Kerem Demirbay. That was confirmed by Aleksandar Dragovic: "Yesterday was very intense – a lot needed the oxygen tent," he joked. "We are continuing to work on our fitness and what the coach demands of us." The view of the mountains and Lake Zeller, which a few of the pros dived into to cool off after training, quickly made them forget about aching bones: "It's wonderful here – pure nature! The air, the atmosphere – you can really enjoy it," added Demirbay.
After the return to the hotel and the communal lunch, it was time for numerous PR and media events. The travelling and local journalists conducted individual interviews with the Werkself players. Bayer04 TV also used the opportunity to get Karim Bellarabi and Kerem Demirbay in front of the camera. The latter admitted: "I can be a handful on the pitch at times. But I'm happy to accept responsibility and I try to protect the lads." The interviews will soon be on bayer04.de.
Lars Bender was in demand as an interviewee after being named captain again by the head coach. "I didn't have any doubts about it," said Bosz. Kevin Volland was confirmed as vice-captain and the other deputies are Julian Baumgartlinger and Kai Havertz for the first time in his professional career. The coach also announced the team committee: Lars Bender, Julian Baumgartlinger, Kai Havertz, Wendell and Jonathan Tah were chosen. Whereby our number four was named in his absence as Tah, exactly like Charles Aránguiz and Leon Bailey, is still on holiday after playing in a tournament. "I have to speak to Jona first," said Bosz. The Dutchman also picked out Kevin Volland as leader in the team: "Kevin is always very much on the ball. He always addresses issues and therefore doesn't need to be on the team committee as well."
In the afternoon, the Werkself and the Bayer 04 management took up the invitation from the long-term partner Salzburger Land to visit the Zell am See-Kaprun Golf Club for the opening of the new football golf course. After a ceremonial reception with brass band music it was first time to exchange gifts – the directors Fernando Carro and Rudi Völler each accepted pair of skis in Bayer 04 colours – before a few balls were hit or kicked on the new course. In the subsequent press interview, Fernando Carro praised the cooperation with Salzburger Land: "The training pitches and the hotel are outstanding! We are very happy here." And Rudi Völler underlined that assessment: "Once again, we have excellent conditions here – just like we have over the past seven years. They are always the basis for the new season."
The right equipment is needed to make the most of the optimum conditions on site. And that came from Leverkusen. The total weight of the equipment at the training camp is 1.4 tons. Over the course of the week it all adds up – over 500 litres of drinks with electrolyte powder were on board, 250 rolls of tape, 150 pairs of running shoes and football boots, 50 balls, 40 transport containers, 32 mannequins, 30 GPS transmitters, 25 poles and nine different sets of kit for the players and coaches. On top of that there are six treatment tables, five ice barrels with five tons of ice and two rugby tackle pads. Hopefully to remain unused are the ultrasound device and the emergency kit including defibrillator.
#B04inAustria – Day 1: Two birthdays and a 'bobble ban'
#B04inAustria – Day 2: Visit from DFB Cup winning captain
Click here for gallery – The best images from day three!
After a run of seven games unbeaten in all competitions, the Werkself suffered a 1-0 defeat at FC Union Berlin despite their best efforts. Captain Robert Andrich, who took responsibility for the goal, said after the match: "Now we have to focus on not losing our heads even in difficult situations. That has always made us strong in the past." The Werkself review.
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Bayer 04 were beaten 1-0 away at Union Berlin on Matchday 23 in the Bundesliga. Kasper Hjulmand’s side struggled to create clear chances, while the hosts struck the only goal of the game through Rani Khedira in the 28th minute.
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Sandwiched between their UEFA Champions League knockout play-off tie against Olympiacos, Bayer 04 return to Bundesliga action on Saturday with a trip to Union Berlin (kick-off: 15:30 CET). It’s a fixture of contrasting styles, with Leverkusen preferring to control the play while Union look to remain compact and counter. The Berliners are therefore suited to facing top teams, but they have only ever managed to win one of 16 meetings with the Werkself, who are looking for a fifth clean sheet of 2026 but will need to beware the home side’s threat from set pieces. Here’s all you need to know ahead of the game in our matchday news.
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After six wins in seven games, the Werkself will be looking to continue their winning run in the capital at FC Union Berlin. Coach Kasper Hjulmand spoke ahead of the match on Saturday, 21 February (kick-off: 15:30 CET) about defenders, the short preparation time and the condition of the pitch at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei.
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