Granit Xhaka on...
...his move to Leverkusen: I had very good talks with Simon Rolfes (sporting managing director, ed.) and also with Xabi. The ideas and philosophy of the club persuaded me. It was a straightforward decision to join Leverkusen. I really feel at home here although it's only my second day. The lads are brilliant and I've had a great reception.
…his targets for the coming season: Now I'm going to try to apply the experience, which I gained in the last few years in London (at Arsenal, ed.), here and bring this young team with me. It's a challenge but I see loads of potential here. The players are in great shape and there’s a very good team spirit.
...his new head coach: There's ten years difference but we've had a connection for a long while through our common experience in the Bundesliga. We faced each other as opponents back then, he was playing for Bayern Munich and I was at Gladbach (Borussia Mönchengladbach, ed.).That was almost the first thing we talked about. Bayern always tore us apart, they had a great team back then. Xabi is a role model for everybody – players and coaches. And his first call to me was something special. I'm happy I can now be part of this team.
The second international break of the 2024/25 season is round the corner. After the Bundesliga clash against Holstein Kiel, 5 October (kick-off 15:30 CEST), several Bayer 04 players will be playing in the next set of UEFA Nations League fixtures, among others. An overview.
Show moreBayer 04 Leverkusen will have to manage without midfielder Synne Skinnes Hansen in the coming weeks. The Norwegian suffered a torn ligament in her right thigh in the match against Carl Zeiss Jena (1-0).
Show moreThe video games manufacturer Electronic Arts (EA) together with the German Football League (DFL) have announced the nominations for the vote for Bundesliga Player of the Month in September – that includes Werkself player Florian Wirtz. Black and Red fans can vote now.
Show moreThe Werkself are away to Liverpool on matchday four of the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 campaign. The game against the current leaders of the Premier League is on Tuesday, 5 November (kick-off: 21.00 CET). Here is the latest information on ticket sales for the fixture at Anfield.
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