
Jona, eight days ago you were playing in front of 50,000 fans at Ibrox. Now it feels like we're in a completely different time.
Definitely. The situation has changed completely. But we've got to make the best of things and try to deal with it to the best of our ability.
What's your daily routine at the moment?
It mainly consist of training sessions – I have to keep fit at the end of the day: weight training, mobility exercises. At the moment, I still go running outside. If we're not allowed to go out then I'll use a treadmill. I've got somebody with me for training to make sure I push myself to the limit and beyond – it would be too tough on my own.
What's particularly important at this time?
I'm no fan of panic as that can lead you to making wrong decisions in a situation like this. We should remain calm but be aware of the situation nevertheless. In general, we all need each other in these difficult times and we should show respect for others.
You've taken an active role and committed yourself to being a private donor to the Sepp Herberger Foundation at the DFB. How did that come about?
My thinking behind it was: I'll be the first to donate so I won't be the last. I'd like to inspire people to donate as well and play their part. At the same time, it's not at all about how much it is or just about donating money. You can also donate your time, for example by helping people with their shopping.
You live with your girlfriend and you keep in contact with members of your family via technical means. How is communication with each other at the moment?
In general, it's less about me getting infected. It's much more important to me that I don't infect anybody. I make sure I wash and disinfect my hands often. If I go for a run outside then I don't touch anything. I wouldn’t like anybody to have health problems because of me. My girlfriend is equally careful. Everybody should be alert and follow the rules.

Calling all Werkself fans: Even during the three-week international break – a first for September and October – you have the chance to visit the BayArena – and for a very special occasion. Bayer 04 is hosting a Health Day on Saturday 3 October, from 10:00 to 14:00 CEST in the Premium Lounge. Together with Bayer Vital and main sponsor BarmeniaGothaer, the Bundesliga club invites you to an interactive, free event centred on the theme of health. Partners will be present on site with their own exciting activities. Here is an overview of the programme of events.
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Werkself-TV shows the highlights of Bayer 04 Women's 2-1 win at SC Freiburg on Matchday 5 of the 2026/27 Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga.
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Bayer 04 produced an impressive display from start to finish as they maintained their perfect home record this season with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig on Bundesliga Matchday 4. Patrik Schick opened the scoring just before half-time, with Miguel Gutiérrez getting his first Werkself goal to wrap up the three points at the BayArena, where fans also got to enjoy the family matchday activities.
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Peter Hermann passed away on Saturday at the age of 74. The entire Bayer 04 family is deeply saddened by the loss of a much-loved figure who helped shape football in Leverkusen over many decades. He was also one of the most respected coaches in the whole of Germany. Hermann had been suffering from ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) for some time.
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