
“We are delighted Francis Onyeka has shown such a strong commitment to Bayer 04 Leverkusen by signing this long-term contract extension. He is a fantastic talent who has come through the ranks at our club over many years and we want him to continue doing so,” said Bayer 04 managing director sport Simon Rolfes. “Francis’ loan spell at Bochum was a great success and a real win-win for both clubs. Now he should and can play a similarly outstanding role at Elversberg and establish himself there as a key player at top-flight level.”
Leverkusen’s Director of Football, Kim Falkenberg, adds: “As a member of our Future Team, Francis is well on his way to becoming a special player and a key figure for the Werkself of the future. At Elversberg, he has excellent opportunities to develop and mature into a seasoned Bundesliga player.”
Onyeka, who was born in Gummersbach, played for Bayer 04’s youth teams since the age of seven. From the summer of 2025, he took his first highly successful steps in professional football in Bochum, gaining the necessary match practice and developing the competitive edge required. “The contract extension at Bayer 04 is a great honour for me and, at the same time, further motivation. I’m looking forward to the challenge at Elversberg and to proving myself week in, week out in the Bundesliga. My aim is to contribute to the team’s success through good performances and to take the next step in my development. I’m convinced I have the potential to establish myself at Bayer 04 over the long term. Bayer 04 is my club; playing for the first team here was my dream even as a child.”

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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Welcome to Leverkusen, Kennet Eichhorn. Bayer 04 have signed the 16-year-old midfielder from Hertha Berlin. Read on to find out more about our new signing.
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There was a successful end to the women's internationals with Werkself players Carlotta Wamser and Cornelia Kramer qualifying for the 2027 World Cup finals in Brazil. A third Leverkusen player is still in with a chance of joining them. The Germany U23 players also experienced success in their last two international friendlies of the season.
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Traveling to North America for the World Cup this summer to see your favorite Bayer 04 players? Here’s a quick cheat sheet with thumbnail portraits and insider tips for each city from a local expert, so you can make the most of your visit and activities beyond the game!
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