
From Kurtekotten via the BayArena to the national side: "It's great for me that the club I've been at since I was 13 years old has given me all these opportunities," said Henrichs who started playing for the Werkself in the U8 team. "I'm very happy I've made it as a professional and an international at Bayer 04. At Leverkusen I’ve always been shown so much confidence, encouraged and developed. Now, after a difficult season, I want to help the club to get back to the level that Bayer 04 stands for."
In that respect, sporting director Rudi Völler sees the contract extension as a special sign. "Benny has developed an outstanding quality over the last year and a half and that has made him attractive to big clubs in Europe," declared Völler. "That made it even more important for us to keep in here for the long term. Benny is not just a top player but also a role model at Leverkusen. He's played for Bayer since he was a kid and he will be one of the players to help form a promising and effective team again.

After eight years, Ida Daedelow is set to leave Bayer 04 Leverkusen. The 18-year-old, whose original contract was due to run to 2027, is joining second-division side VfL Bochum.
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As with the other youth teams (U16 to U19), Bayer 04 are also relying on familiar faces—some in new roles—and fresh impetus from the coaching staff for the 2026/27 season in the younger age groups. An overview of the U11 to U15 teams.
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After eight years in the youth set-up at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Benjamin Adam is leaving the club. The 35-year-old, who most recently coached the Leverkusen U17s, will take charge of the Hansa Rostock U19 team next season.
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As well as internal changes and familiar faces, Bayer 04 are also looking to bring fresh impetus to the coaching staff of the senior youth squads for the 2026/27 campaign. Here is an overview of the U19, U17 and U16 teams.
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