
…the unusual stadium atmosphere without fans: We had the chance to see it at other games over the weekend. It is different in front of the television compared with the stadium. But we knew more or less what to expect and were well prepared. It was unusual, it felt like you could hear every step. It reminded me of indoor football when I was a teenager.
…the continued run of six Bundesliga games without defeat: We were in an outstanding phase before the suspension of play. Of course, it did us good to be able to get straight back on track in Bremen by winning the game. Physically it was different from the time before the break. I very much felt the strain after two months without playing and without competition. In the short time we've had training together, we have been able to simulate a few things but obviously you don't have the same number of competitive situations as before. For the first game – also under the circumstances – we did well yesterday.
…the fixture list after the restart with four games in 12 days: The phase will be intensive. We'll definitely notice that. But I'm glad about it. As we have the chance of quickly getting back to our original fitness level.
…maintaining distance for goal celebrations: I don't really have to think too much about that as I don't score very often (he laughs). Everything is different at the moment. Everybody is aware of the situation and we try our best. But I can understand if one or two people embrace in spite of that. Football lives from emotions – it's always been like that and it will remain like that over the next few weeks as well.
…depth in the squad and the rule change from three to five substitutions per game and club: We've seen throughout the second half of the season that we've got a fantastic bench and a strong squad. That can pay off over the rest of the season. Everybody is prepared to use their time on the pitch and give their all. That's been our trademark before the suspension. I hope it continues to be the same for the next few weeks.
…Florian Wirtz, who is the youngest Bundesliga debutant at Bayer 04 since yesterday (17 years, 15 days): I feel like it’s is only yesterday when I was on the other side at that age (he laughs). The lads get younger and younger and are already very talented very early on. Flo showed what he could do in the first training sessions. He wasn't fazed at all in the game. A lot of people will have a lot enjoyment from him. He's quickly settled into the team. Now we'll help him take the next steps.
…Saturday's top match at Borussia Mönchengladbach: Gladbach were impressive against Frankfurt. They're very strong this season – but so are we. Two very good teams face each other. If we want to stay in the leading group then we'll have to get a result. That's our target.

Video game producer Electronic Arts (EA) has announced the nominees for the Men's and Women's Team of the Year (TOTY) for EA Sports FC 26. With Patrik Schick and Alejandro Grimaldo for the men and Vanessa Fudalla for the women, there are three Bayer 04 players included. Fans of the Black-and-Reds can vote for each top XI of 2025 from now until 18:59 CET on Monday 12 January.
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The Werkself host FC St. Pauli at the BayArena on matchday 22 in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season. The match is on Saturday, 14 February, at 15:30 CET. Information on ticket sales.
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The Werkself host Mainz at the BayArena on matchday 24 in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season. The match is on Saturday, 28 February, at 15:30 CET. Information on ticket sales.
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The long-standing successful collaboration between Bayer 04 and the transport service provider wupsi GmbH has been expanded: From January 2026, 100 wupsi bikes with Bayer 04 branding will be available for hire throughout the city of Leverkusen. They will complement the many existing offers and services that provide key support, especially for fans travelling to and from home matches at the BayArena.
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