The last-minute win over Hamburger SV on Wednesday left Leverkusen with an excellent record of 19 points from the first nine league games of the season. "It's a quality of this team that they never give up and then manage to find something extra in stoppage time," said Pätzold. "The three points are very valuable, but after two days off that game is behind us. We're going into this significantly more rested than on Wednesday. Our squad doesn't currently allow for much rotation, so we're thankful for the match being on Monday. We'll need all our strength and energy to hold our own at Freiburg."
The fact it's three years since the Werkself last lost to Freiburg, currently in seventh place with 13 points, is of little importance to Pätzold. "With the amount of personnel changes, statistics that go back over seasons are relative and have no relevance for us. Freiburg have found their feet well in the season and have great qualities particularly in attack. Even the last three matches, which they've lost, could have all turned out differently," continued the coach. "They were the dominant side and had a lot of chances, but weren't effective enough. So, in spite of recent results we're warned."
The Bayer 04 boss knows the strengths of the opponents: "They're a settled and very hardworking team, where you can identify patterns and processes. We expect a tight game that will be decided by little details." That's where the two wins in the games against Hamburg (2-1) and FC Carl Zeiss Jena (4-2) could benefit Leverkusen. "With the confidence from the last two weeks, we want to work the momentum in our favour and crown a busy week with the third win," declared Pätzold.
After her two-match ban, Charlotte Voll will return between the posts in the continued absence of injured captain Friederike Repohl. "Charly is our number two and will return in goal. Anne Moll filled in brilliantly for her when required," confirmed Pätzold. Centre-back Lilla Turanyi is also available again after suspension, while Juliette Vidal and Ruby Grant return to the squad after their recent knocks. Carlotta Wamser won't travel to Freiburg, though, as she's still nursing an injury. Cornelia Kramer (muscle injury) and Shen Menglu (cruciate ligament) remain sidelined, too.
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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