“As a child, I dreamed of playing for Bayer 04. I made it and I’m very grateful to the club and coaches who have supported me through all those years,” said the 18-year-old Gedikli. “Now it’s time for me to make way in professional football. The attractive offer from Turkey offers me a great opportunity.”
The centre forward made his first-team debut for the Werkself in the Europa League in 2020/21 making three appearances in group matches and he also played in the final Bundesliga match of the season at Borussia Dortmund. He earned his first international cap with the Germany U19 team four months later and has played four times and scored one goal for his country to date.
“Emrehan joined us when he was eight and now he is on the verge of a promising development in professional football,” said sporting director Simon Rolfes. “We wish him great success for the rest of his career.”
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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