"We have recovered and are motivated for the next challenge in the Bundesliga," declared Xabi Alonso three days after the Champions League match at Liverpool (0-4). "Whether it's against Liverpool or Bochum, we always prepare in the same way. What we need are concentration and the right mentality over the whole game. If we can do that then we’ll go into the international break feeling positive."
Before that, the Werkself face a tricky task at the Vonovia Ruhrstadion. VfL Bochum are currently bottom with one point from nine games and share the worst start to a season in Bundesliga history (alongside Fürth in 2021/22 and Saarbrücken in the first Bundesliga season in 1963/64). Alonso: "The table and Bochum's number of points are irrelevant, it's always difficult at VfL. They have a clear DNA marked by high intensity and lots of passion with the atmosphere at the stadium also always playing a role."
In addition, Bochum have brought in a new head coach in Dieter Hecking who has plenty of experience in the Bundesliga. The 60-year-old coach, up until May the sporting managing director at FC Nürnberg, took over the coaching role at VfL at the start of the week and he will be in the dugout for the first time against the Werkself.
As was the case in Liverpool, Martin Terrier is not fit for the game against Bochum. Alonso on the French forward: "He won't be in the squad even though he already feels much better. If everything goes as planned then he will be back against Heidenheim after the international break."
Nordi Mukiele, Jeanuel Belocian and Amine Adli also remain on the sidelines. The latter extended his contract at Bayer 04 on Friday to run to 2028. Alonso on the Morocco international currently out with a broken leg: "He's very important on the pitch and in the dressing room. He has a great connection to his teammates, he speaks lots of languages. I and we are all happy that he'll stay here for a long time."
2,750 fans will support the Werkself in Bochum with the away section sold out. The fan information can be found HERE.
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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After eight years in the youth set-up at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Benjamin Adam is leaving the club. The 35-year-old, who most recently coached the Leverkusen U17s, will take charge of the Hansa Rostock U19 team next season.
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As well as internal changes and familiar faces, Bayer 04 are also looking to bring fresh impetus to the coaching staff of the senior youth squads for the 2026/27 campaign. Here is an overview of the U19, U17 and U16 teams.
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Bayer 04 have signed 16-year-old defensive midfielder Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha Berlin. The Germany U17 international is joining the Werkself from the Berlin Bundesliga 2 club on a long-term contract. Eichhorn made 19 appearances for the Hertha Berlin first team last season, scoring two goals.
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