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.
The Golden Boy Top 100 traditionally lists Europe’s most promising young players. In the latest update, published to mark the start of the new season, four current Werkself players – alongside loanee Francis Onyeka – feature on the list. This means Bayer 04 have the most players in contention of any Bundesliga club.
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Goalkeeper Rafaela Borggräfe will continue to play for Bayer 04 Leverkusen next season. The loan of the Germany U23 international, who joined from Liverpool in the winter, has been extended by a further year.
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The Bayer 04 delegation, led by Fernando Carro, CEO, concluded their multi-day trip to Brazil with a visit to the community-based organisation Bola Pra Frente in Rio de Janeiro – founded by former Werkself player Jorginho. During the visit, Bayer 04 committed to extending support for the Bola Pra Frente project for a further five years. In addition, Jorginho, a member of the Brazil 1994 World Cup-winning squad, was named Bayer 04’s second official club legend. With the visit to São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the club has strengthened the relationships built up over the years in one of Bayer 04’s most important international markets.
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Ten years after retiring as a player, Kristina Sundov is returning to the Bayer 04 Women’s team as assistant coach. The 39-year-old former Croatia international takes over from Remzi Kahraman, who has taken up a new challenge abroad. She has been given a contract to 30 June 2028.
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The training pitches at the BayArena are already buzzing with activity again, even before training officially begins next week. On Monday morning, a small group from the Werkself first-team squad completed a session lasting around an hour. Both new and familiar faces were present.
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