"Sofie has already developed into a seasoned Bundesliga player for us at a young age," said Achim Feifel, Bayer 04 Women sporting director. "To already have such a central role in the team before the age of 20 is anything but a matter of course. She is thus also an example to the other young players in our squad, so we're very glad that we've been able to tie her to us for the long term. Her potential for development is far from exhausted."
Having made her Bundesliga debut in March 2021 at the age of 16, the Germany U20 international racked up her 50th competitive appearance for Leverkusen in the 1-0 defeat at RB Leipzig last time out. The daughter of ex-Werkself midfielder Thomas Zdebel has featured in 17 out of 19 Bundesliga matches this season, starting 16 of them.
"I have close ties here through my family and friends, I've been able to progress very well in the last six years and have established myself as a Bundesliga player," explained Zdebel. "The conditions and the environment here are just a great fit. I want to continue on this journey with the club."
From his arrival at the airport, the medical and contract signing, right through to photo shoots, his very own trading card and his first interview at the BayArena: Werkself TV followed new signing Afonso Moreira up close on his first day in Leverkusen. In the interview, the 21-year-old Portuguese left-winger, who has joined the Werkself from Lyon, talks about his excitement ahead of joining Bayer 04 and the Bundesliga, as well as his conversation with head coach Carles Martínez. Moreira also reveals the secret behind his iconic goal celebration – which he intends to perform “as often as possible” at the BayArena next season...
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A new signing for the U19s: Bayer 04 have signed winger Clinton Wilson from Schalke 04. The 18-year-old previously played for Leverkusen youth teams from January to June 2024.
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After eight years, Ida Daedelow is set to leave Bayer 04 Leverkusen. The 18-year-old, whose original contract was due to run to 2027, is joining second-division side VfL Bochum.
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As with the other youth teams (U16 to U19), Bayer 04 are also relying on familiar faces—some in new roles—and fresh impetus from the coaching staff for the 2026/27 season in the younger age groups. An overview of the U11 to U15 teams.
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