The Werkself players thanked the nurses and support staff from the Klinikum Leverkusen. On behalf of everybody, Bayer 04 printed the names of ten members of staff on shirts. Lars Bender, Lukas Hradecky, Jonathan Tah, Kai Havertz and Co. signed them and had them delivered – unfortunately without saying thank you personally due to the current circumstances.
In addition to the Werkself players and several big names from the USA top leagues of the NBA (basketball) and NFL (American football), the former Bayer 04 crowd favourite Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez, now playing for LA Galaxy, also thanked the doctors, nurses and care workers as part of this campaign. Everyone can say thank you via the hashtags #TheRealHeroes and #WorldNursesday.
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.
Show more
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.
Show more
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.
Show more
Bayer 04 have signed 16-year-old defensive midfielder Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha Berlin. The Germany U17 international is joining the Werkself from the Berlin Bundesliga 2 club on a long-term contract. Eichhorn made 19 appearances for the Hertha Berlin first team last season, scoring two goals.
Show more
