Henrichs is hoping to make his debut for Germany in the World Cup qualifier in San Marino or in the friendly in Italy.
The 19-year-old, who has been at Bayer 04 since childhood, has been a regular in the Werkself squad this season. Whether at right or left back "opponents find it difficult to get past Benny," said Schmidt who has played Henrichs for the full 90 minutes in 13 of the 15 competitive games this season. Henrichs made his debut for the Germany U21 team a month ago.
Five predecessors
From the Kurtekotten Academy to the German national team – five other players proceeding along that route. In 1988 Knut Reinhardt received his call-up to the national team, Gonzalo Castro followed in 2007, René Adler in 2008 and Stefan Reinartz in 2010. The last Bayer 04 player was Christoph Kramer before the 2014 World Cup and now this honour goes to Benjamin Henrichs.
It's a great day for me today. I'm really happy about the call-up, it's a special honour and a great challenge," said Henrichs before adding: "I'll give 100 per cent to play well for the national team."
And Rudi Völler was also happy to hear the news. "The call-up is a wonderful thumbs up for Benny and also for youth development at Bayer 04. Everybody at the club is happy for him – Benny has earned this chance through his performances over recent months,” said the sporting director.
Five Leverkusen players in the squad
Löw has called up four other Leverkusen players: Kevin Volland, Julian Brandt, Bernd Leno and Jonathan Tah. Volland has eight full international caps, Brandt four. Tah and Leno have made two appearances for Germany.
The match in San Marino is on Friday 11 November at 20.45 CET and the friendly against Italy is on Tuesday 15 November at 20.45 CET in Milan.
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.
Show more
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.
Show more
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.
Show more
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.
Show more
