
…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.

Ecuador international Piero Hincapie, who moved to Arsenal FC on loan from Bayer 04 Leverkusen for the 2025/26 season, will join the English champions permanently on 1 July 2026.
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Bayer 04 Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro will lead a club delegation to Brazil from July 2-6 for a program of partner engagement, community activities and football development initiatives across São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
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In glorious sunshine and temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius, the Bayer 04 Women have begun their preparations for the new season. With a relaxed first session at the Kurtekotten training centre, coach Roberto Pätzold’s team became the first Bundesliga side to resume training after a 37-day break.
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Black and Red stand out. Under the slogan ‘Diversity under the Cross’, Bayer 04 took part in Pride on the Rhine at the weekend alongside the queer fan club “Bayer 04 Junxx”. The club mascot, Brian the Lion, and several members of staff were also in attendance, championing diversity and solidarity.
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