Bayer 04 relaid the pitch at the BayArena during the international break and the Werkself tested it out for the first on Wednesday afternoon during the final pre-match training session. “We need a good surface for our possession football. That could be to our advantage tomorrow,” declared Peter Bosz at the pre-match press conference.
Players unable to enjoy the new surface on Thursday night include long-term absentees through injury Charles Aránguiz, Santiago Arias, Exequiel Palacios and Paulinho plus a defensive trio: Edmond Tapsoba is still self-isolating after testing positive for Covid-19, Lars and Sven Bender are also sidelined due to injury. “With all three, it’s too early to say if they will be fit for the weekend” said Bosz, who has again brought U19 striker Emrehan Gedikli into his squad.
“I’m expecting an intensive and good game,” said winger Leon Bailey who was also on the top table in the media centre at the BayArena. Like several of his teammates, the Jamaican returned from national duty a few days ago. Given the current number of games for the players, head coach Bosz highlighted the importance of easing workloads on Wednesday ahead of the forthcoming double-fixture weeks.
One option for the Dutchman, already used against Be’er Sheva, is Patrik Schick. After four weeks out injured, the Czech joins Lucas Alario as a possible starter in the centre of the attack. Bosz added: “But perhaps he could come on. We’ll build him up step-by-step.”
The Werkself will want to continue their winning run against Israeli teams in Europe against Be’er Sheva with a fourth victory over teams from that country – and put themselves another three points clear of the other teams in Group C. “Our group is very exciting. All four teams have already won and we’re all bunched together in the table. If we win tomorrow – and we have to at home – we’ll take a big step,” said Bosz.
Match information:
Broadcasters: RTL Nitro, DAZN and Werks11 Radio
Referee: Pawel Gil (Poland)
MG Motor is continuing their close partnership with Bayer 04 Leverkusen. The official automotive partner for the Werkself will additionally remain a Leverkusen Premium Partner in the coming 2025/26 campaign as was the case last season. The dual commitment of MG Motor means the car manufacturer continues to provide reliable and important support to the Champions League club.
Show more
Werkself-TV shows the highlights of Bayer 04's 4-0 win at Sonnenhof Großaspach in the first round of the DFB-Pokal 2025/26...
Show more
Bayer 04 are through to the second round of the DFB Pokal after a 4-0 win at Sonnenhof Großaspach on Friday night. The game was paused after only 18 minutes due to a storm over the ground. After a lengthy delay, play resumed and Patrik Schick opened the scoring. Arthur, Christian Kofane and Alejandro Grimaldo made things more comfortable in the second half, as the fourth-tier side had two players sent off.
Show more
There were no goals across 115 minutes of football between Bayer 04 Women and PSV Eindhoven in Friday’s friendly. Roberto Pätzold’s team played two 45-minute periods before an extra 25 minutes two days prior to heading to Rieden for their training camp. Their Dutch opponents were preparing for their UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifier in 12 days.
Show more
