Back
27.09.2017Bayer 04

The striker with a nose for goal

Both Bayer 04 and Lucas Alario had to be extremely patient before the striker could make his first appearance for his new club. After his former club River Plate refused to accept the transfer payment, which led to the 24-year-old Argentinian being refused permission to play, a fast track FIFA hearing was put into effect. FIFA gave their approval on Thursday evening and that marked the end of a 20-day waiting period. The striker made his debut for the Werkself on Sunday in the 3-0 victory over Hamburg SV. The new number 13 took time out three days later to face the press.
KS170926_Schueler_0485.jpg

The new signing responds to questions on…

 …his debut against HSV and his goal to make it 2-0: "I'm very happy I was finally able to play for Bayer 04 on Sunday after weeks of uncertainty. Of course, I'm glad I was able to score a goal in my first game. But it's more important to me the team won at home and picked up three important points."

 …the transfer wrangle: "My target was to play here in Leverkusen and I'm happy it's  finally happened. A lot of things have been said and written about this case in recent  weeks – and unfortunately it wasn't always about football. I'm very relieved it's over and that I can help the team out in competitive games. That's the most important thing for me."

 …a possible problem with playing rhythm due to the lack of permission to play: "I just love playing football. A lot of things have gone through my mind in the past few weeks. Of course, it's better if you can distract yourself by playing at times like that. It wasn't easy. But I don't think I've got out of a rhythm. Also because I've been focused on training in the past few weeks and I've  worked extremely hard.“

 …the German language: "I try to learn German every day. That's important for integration and, of course, for me to be able to speak to my team-mates on the pitch as soon as possible. I've had great support from my team-mates so far and I'm very grateful for that. They've contributed to me feeling at home here from the start."

 …the atmosphere at the BayArena against HSV: "Everybody knows Argentinian football fans are very  passionate. But our fans gave us great support throughout the game against HSV on Sunday. Fortunately, we are able to show our gratitude with a win. I liked the way the  fans were very patient."

 …his nickname 'El Pipa': "One of my youth coaches at Club Atletico Colon in Santa Fe gave me the nickname and it was the same at River Plate later on. I'm called that because people said and say I've got a big nose…(he laughs)"

 …Friday's Bundesliga match against Schalke 04: "It's a very important game for us. We want to carry on where we left off at the weekend and pick up three points away from home so we can continue to move up the table."

Related News

FC25_TOTS_Bundesliga_Motif_DesignTemp_16x9.jpg
Bayer 04 - 09.05.2025

Numerous Bayer 04 players in 2024/25 Team of the Season

Bayer 04 are again strongly represented in this year's Bundesliga Team of the Season from the games manufacturer EA Sports. Five Werkself players have been voted into the top XI for the 2024/25 season, a duo from the Bayer 04 Women's team are in the female Bundesliga TOTS. Bayer 04 were well represented last season with six male players in the top eleven, the most players from one club.

Show more
BVB
Bundesliga - 09.05.2025

Our next opponents: On course for a happy ending

A few weeks ago Borussia Dortmund were marooned in mid-table mediocrity in the Bundesliga. Then the Black and Yellows started a run that overcame all comers. And suddenly a Champions League spot was again within reach. BVB will be looking to take the next step towards the big target at the BayArena on Sunday, 11 May (kick-off: 15:30 CEST). Coach Niko Kovac has almost his full squad available. The lowdown on our next opponents.

Show more
Jupp Heynckes
Bayer 04 - 09.05.2025

A legend as a striker and a coach: Jupp Heynckes turns 80

In the long and renowned career of Jupp Heynckes his two years at Leverkusen fill a short chapter. Nevertheless, his work under the Bayer Cross between 2009 and 2011 left its mark. The former world class striker and coach with a worldwide reputation was also very successful here and he led the Werkself to the runners-up spot in the Bundesliga and he made a lasting impression on many people at the club. Jupp Heynckes today celebrates his 80th birthday. Many happy returns from Bayer 04 as we look back at two great years.

Show more
U19
U19 - 08.05.2025

‘Fans will give us an extra boost’: U19s host FC Bayern in semi-final tie

A cracker of a semi-final at the Ulrich Haberland Stadium. The Bayer 04 U19 team entertain Bayern Munich on Saturday, 10 May (kick-off: 11:00 CEST/stadium opens: 10:00 CEST). In front of a home crowd, the team led by head coach Sergi Runge, who welcomes back an attacking player, is looking to build on the battling performances from the previous knockout games and "perform at the right moment." Tickets are available from the Bayer 04 online shop and the game will also be broadcast live on Sky.

Show more