In a cosy atmosphere, the two Werkself players read to the children of the Bayer 04 Löwenclub from the newly published book, while the lovingly designed illustrations were shown on a large screen. Beforehand, the young participants took part in a short quiz with questions about Bayer 04 and the traditional Pixi book series.
“We were able to practise a bit today for our own children, who are still a bit too young for it at the moment,” said Hradecky with a grin. “Maybe they'll fall asleep to our voices. The children behaved really well. But it was a great experience for us too.”
Stanisic enjoyed the role of reader just as much. “The atmosphere was very relaxed, the children listened really well. It was a nice change for us,” said the Croatia international. “I didn't know the book before, I really like the story.” He was also particularly pleased with the publication shortly after winning the Bundesliga title. “There's no better time for it than now,” said Stanisic. “And the book doesn't have to be the last of its kind.”
Ten days after being crowned champions for the first time and one week before the first leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final away at Roma, captain Hradecky and defender Stanisic took time out in a cosy atmosphere to read the book to the five to seven-year-olds in the BayArena. Afterwards, the duo were on hand to sign autographs and many freshly printed copies of the book.
The story of the book revolves around the two young football fans Jule and Mateo, who visit their favourite club Bayer 04 together and experience special moments there. The 10x10 cm Pixi book is packed with information and background information about the city of Leverkusen and the Werkself. In addition to the entertaining storyline, the focus is on multicultural co-operation and the international orientation that Bayer 04 stands for.
‘Ein neuer Löwe für die Werkself’ is now available at the classic Pixi price of €0.99 in both Bayer 04 shops. In addition, all primary schools in Leverkusen are being offered free copies for their pupils.
While Bayer 04 celebrates its 120th birthday this year, the Pixi concept turns 70. The series of reading and read-aloud books for children was launched at the Frankfurt Book Fair in 1954 and has been hugely popular with generations of children ever since.
A special afternoon at the Bayer 04 Football Academy autumn camp: At the Liga 20 indoor football centre, in the shadow of the BayArena, two Werkself women’s team players led a training session. Loreen Bender and Selina Ostermeier not only offered the young players advice and support, but also got stuck in themselves.
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Once the final whistle was blown, it was time to take a deep breath. 2-0 down and a 5–2 win in the end. It was a nerve-wracking affair against FC Nürnberg in the second round of the 2026–27 DFB Pokal. Jonas Hofmann said – “We didn’t let our heads drop” – hitting the nail on the head. Indeed, it was clear the Werkself were not prepared to accept elimination from the DFB Pokal. So they went on to score. The Black and Reds made their presence felt with a goal just before half-time, followed by four more in the second half. Or, to put it another way: Edmond Tapsoba’s first Bayer 04 brace, a clinical penalty from Patrik Schick, yet another precision strike from Hofmann and a blistering volley from Lucas Vázquez. Each goal more beautiful than the last! After the match, head coach Carles Martínez praised his team’s commitment above all else and the fact that they never lost belief in themselves. The Werkself review.
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Werkself-TV shows the highlights of Bayer 04's 5-2 win against 1. FC Nürnberg in the second round of the DFB-Pokal 2026/27...
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Bayer 04 came from 2-0 down to beat Nürnberg 5-2 in the second round of the 2026/27 DFB Pokal on Wednesday night. Edmond Tapsoba’s double either side of half-time sparked the turnaround, before Patrik Schick, Jonas Hofmann and Lucas Vázquez ensured progress to the last 16 for the 2024 cup winners.
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