"The change of coaches at Werder Bremen has brought a new energy to the team and the club. It will be a tough task to beat this team after the international break," declared Bayer 04 head coach Roger Schmidt at the pre-match press conference in the media centre at the BayArena, as ever broadcast live at www.bayer04.de and on Facebook.
It remains to be seen whether the coach will have all his players available with the obvious exception of long-term injuries Karim Bellarabi, Vladlen Yurchenko and Joel Pohjanpalo. It appears Julian Baumgartlinger and Aleksandar Dragovic have recovered from knocks picked up playing for Austria. "Both were able to train normally without any major problems. I'm assuming they will be available for Saturday,"
The boss was unable to provide a final update on the trio of Wendell, Charles Aranguiz and Robbie Kruse but all the other internationals have returned to Leverkusen safe and sound. "Wendell, Charles and Robbie are only returning today or tomorrow so will wait to speak to them to see what condition they're in." Chicharito, who unusually was not picked by the Mexico coach this week, had the chance to use the time on rest and recovery as he finally gets over his broken hand.
"Chicharito is in good shape"
The striker has certainly been working hard in training after returning from injury. "Chicharito returned in positive mood and full of energy. He has – like the whole squad – completed a very intense week of training. We are in good shape," declared a pleased Roger Schmidt happy with his group in training. The head coach is also clear what he wants for Saturday night: "The home win against a top team like Borussia Dortmund ahead of the international break was important and now it’s equally important to carry on in Bremen and further solidify our position with an away win. With the experience gained in the last few games we'll give our all."
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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