In addition to the internal and orthopaedic tests, that were carried out in part on Monday, 17 players (split into groups of three) and excluding the international players, completed a range of tests on strength, coordination, movement, balance, acceleration and stamina. "With the help of the data, we produce an individual profile for each player to see exactly where the particular strengths, weaknesses or performance limiting factors are," explained Malte Krüger, the head sports scientist at Bayer 04. The data acquired primarily serves to optimise the training programme over the course of the pre-season. "That means the players can work in a targeted and individual way with our fitness coaches Schahriar Bigdeli, Terry Peters and Daniel Jouvin to endeavour to make up deficits or to reduce the risk of injury – without the daily training on the pitch having to suffer," added Krüger.
Of course, the aim is to be as well prepared as possible for the three competitions facing the Werkself of the Bundesliga, the Champions League and the DFB Cup. "We want to keep all players fit and healthy through the season and make sure they are fully fit when the busy weeks start," said Krüger.
Kai Havertz, Lukas Hradecky, Aleksandar Dragovic, Tin Jedvaj and Paulinho, who were given extra leave due to their international appearances at the beginning of June, will complete the performance tests on Sunday.
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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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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Calling Bayer 04 families – this matchday is all yours! As part of the Family Matchday on Sunday 20 September, not only will the Werkself take on RB Leipzig at 15:30 CEST but there will also be a variety of activity zones for young and old alike be set up around the BayArena. What’s more, genuine Bayer 04 rarities await Black and Red fans at the Fantrödel flea market. By taking part in the fan travel survey, Leverkusen supporters can help the club gather important information and even win a jersey before the Werkself hit the ground running against Leipzig on the pitch. The matchday news for RB Leipzig game.
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It has been a mixed start to the season for RB Leipzig. The team from Saxony have a flawless record at home but are less successful on the road to date. RBL are looking to change that in their away fixture at the BayArena on Sunday, 20 September (kick-off: 15:30 CEST). However, head coach Martin Demichelis will have to manage without a number of key players. The lowdown on our next opponents.
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