The day before the showdown in London, Roger Schmidt and his players had the chance to see the hallowed turf at close quarters in the final pre-match training session and it was in good condition.
That is not a given as the NFL footballers made a European guest appearance on Sunday night but Wembley would not be Wembley without its splendid turf. The popular legend associated with this impressive stadium also drew enthusiasm from experienced figures such as Schmidt and Chicharito. “The match is an absolute highlight,” said the head coach at the pre-match press conference: “We’ve played at the Camp Nou and the Calderon Stadium but this here is something special! But the main thing tomorrow for us is it’s a very important game.”
The situation in Group E could hardly be more exciting: Just three points separates the four teams – with each club having the chance of making the last 16 in their own hands. Proof of that balance was evident in the goalless draw at the BayArena two weeks ago. “That’s why we know how difficult it is to play against Tottenham,” said Schmidt before adding: “In the second half we showed how we could play it.”
Tah and Toprak on board
Recent injury absentees Jonathan Tah and Ömer Toprak could provide strength in defence against a positive Spurs team. Both central defenders travelled and were involved in the final pre-match training session and “we’ve got good reason to think they will be in the squad,” said Schmidt. In contrast, the captain Lars Bender is ruled out due to an injury suffered at the weekend. The hosts Tottenham also have injury problems and will probably have to make do without defensive stalwart Toby Alderweireld and star striker Harry Kane. And there is also a question mark over midfielder Erik Lamela.
Leverkusen will have the support of around 2,000 fans in London. The prospect of a large crowd at Wembley Stadium makes it worthwhile arriving early and using public transport. Werkself fans not at the game can keep up with the action in England’s capital via social networks including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat. It’s worth logging on.
Bayer 04 Leverkusen have loaned new signing Luca Erlein to newly promoted FC Energie Cottbus for the 2026/27 season. This will give him the opportunity to play in Bundesliga 2. The club signed the 19-year-old right-back on a permanent basis last week, on a contract to 30 June 2030.
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Trophies as a youth, appearances in the pro game and his first taste of international competition: new arrival Luca Erlein, who has been signed from TSG Hoffenheim, can already look back on some remarkable achievements and moments in his fledgling career. We take a closer look at the 19-year-old right-back, who can also fill other roles across the defensive line.
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Bayer 04 Leverkusen have signed Germany U19 international Luca Erlein from Hoffenheim. The 19-year-old right-back, who is capable of playing in various defensive positions, has penned a contract until 30 June 2030.
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Bayer 04 Leverkusen has a new coffee partner. The club has agreed a long-term partnership with the Bocholt-based roastery Imping, running to 30 June 2031. The exclusive partnership with the family-run business includes the installation of fully automatic coffee machines at the BayArena, as well as the right to supply and serve coffee products in the business areas during Werkself home games.
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