Youth League clash at Manchester City: 'Big challenge we want to tackle in the best possible way'

"City is a world-class club," stresses Brok. "The fact that they've consistently developed top players from their own youth setup at this level in recent years and established them in the senior team shows how high the quality is at youth level." Stars such as Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Rico Lewis, Dortmund's Felix Nmecha and former Werkself player Jeremie Frimpong all progressed through the MCFC Academy.

The Blues are currently just one point behind Bayer 04 in 20th place in the tight overall Youth League table, having beaten Napoli (2-0) and Monaco (5-3). But they also lost 2-1 to Villarreal and most recently 3-0 at home to Borussia Dortmund. "Both City and we have been drawn against very strong opponents in this phase of the league," stated Brok.

Turay, Chigozie Owen and Co. back

Last year, the Werkself would have been guaranteed a place in this season's knockout phase with one more point, i.e. a total of eight, from the two remaining games against Manchester City and Newcastle United. However, Brok's not about to start worrying about the maths. "Of course we want to make it; each and every one of us is investing an incredible amount every day. But we're not concerned with the question of what might be good enough. We invest everything we can and always aim for the maximum. That's our way. Even in this big challenge, which we want to tackle in the best possible way."

The 35-year-old Dutchman can also count on one or two players returning compared to the 5-0 defeat at Benfica. Osman Turay, Nebe Domnic, Ben Hawighorst and Jeremiah Mensah are back in Leverkusen after Germany were knocked out of the U17 World Cup and are an option for the Youth League squad. Emmanuel Chigozie Owen has also recovered and is available again. "It was great to see so many lads back in the dressing room and on the pitch in the last few days," said Brok. "We want to take this positive feeling and togetherness with us to Manchester."

exclusive Live stream for Bayer 04 Club members

Bayer 04 fans who are in the area can watch the game live at the Manchester City Academy Stadium. Tickets are available exclusively online HERE and cost between £1 and £3 depending on age. Payment for food and beverages in the stadium will be cashless only.

For all Bayer 04 club members who cannot be there, there will be an exclusive live stream on bayer04.de and in the Bayer 04 app. The broadcast will begin at around 15.50 CET.