"Tim Steidten has consistently proved himself in an extremely demanding field over a long period of time," declared Bayer 04 sporting director Simon Rolfes. "He has had a strong influence on the impressive development and success of Werder in recent years and he made a significant contribution. I've known Tim for a long time and we are happy we have been able to bring him into such an important role as squad planner," said Rolfes.
Steidten started his career as youth head scout with the Werder Bremen U8s before working on analysis for the Werder senior squad and then being promoted to the role as head scout. When the sporting director Rouven Schröder announced he was leaving to join Mainz 05 in February 2016, Steidten filled the post. Alongside managing director Frank Baumann, Steidten acted as his right hand man. Together they completed transfers such as Serge Gnabry from Arsenal and the Dutchman Davy Klaassen from Everton to Werder Bremen.
Arsenal, one of the favourites in the UCL, visit the BayArena for the first leg in the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16. Kai Havertz and Piero Hincapie, two long-serving Bayer 04 players, are set to return to the BayArena for the first time since leaving the club. As part of the match against the Gunners, fans can look forward to exciting Sound of Dreams festival activities at the stadium. Club members can also secure another SoD Unplugged ticket for a chance to win a special prize. Today’s matchday news.
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A Champions League showdown at the BayArena awaits. On Wednesday night, 11 March (kick-off: 18:45 CET), the Werkself face Arsenal in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. Ahead of the clash with the Premier League leaders, head coach Kasper Hjulmand spoke about the Gunners' exceptional strength at set-pieces, a returning striker and "believing in yourself". Forward Christian Kofane also spoke about the approach to the Round of 16 tie and congratulated his personal idol - whose previous success also motivates him for forthcoming challenges.
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There is no question Arsenal are one of the top favourites to win the UEFA Champions League. Spanish coach Mikel Arteta's team won all of their matches in the league phase of the competition. On Wednesday night, 11 March (kick-off: 18:45 CET), the Gunners, who also lead the Premier League, will play the first leg in the UCL Round of 16 at the BayArena. Two former Leverkusen players are particularly looking forward to the clash at their old stomping ground. The lowdown on our next opponents.
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The Werkself welcome FC Augsburg to the BayArena on Bundesliga matchday 30 in the 2025/26 season. The match on Saturday, 18 April kicks off at 15:30 CEST. Bayer 04 have organised a family matchday with exclusive offers for parents and children. Information on ticket sales.
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