The fact the Werkself have opted to retain one of the most crucial players of recent years over the long term is, for CEO Michael Schade, "a clear signal to the team and the fans. Lars is a role model. Over the years at the club, he has attained a special status at Bayer 04 through excellent performances, outstanding commitment and his down-to-earth and honest approach," declared Schade.
And sporting director Rudi Völler emphasised the significance of the man from Rosenheim: "Lars is a top player, one of the best in his position in Germany – but not just because of his outstanding qualities on the pitch. Lars is extremely important as a determined and strong-minded leader of a young and hungry team. He gives the team security, structure and stability."
Lars Bender has been at Bayer 04 since the 2009/10 season. "Over all that time, the club has always supported me in good and bad times and, above all, stood by me when I was battling with serious injuries. I'm very grateful for that," said Bender. "It's important for me to feel good and have a functioning environment where my strengths are valued and where I have everything I need, including on the personal front. There is a lot of mutual trust. I now feel part of this club and part of its history,which we all want to see continue to be successful into the future."
After Jens Nowotny was officially named a Bayer 04 honorary captain last weekend, the long-standing Werkself player is part of the Leverkusen delegation on the trophy tour to New York City next week from 11 to 14 September. In an interview with bayer04.de, the 50-year-old talked about his expectations ahead of the trip to the metropolis on the East Coast of the USA.
Show moreThe German Football League (DFL) has confirmed the dates and kick-off times for matchdays 6 to 12 of the 2024/25 Bundesliga season. Full details of the Bayer 04 fixtures.
Show moreMarkus Rehm, a long jumper at TSV Bayer 04 Leverkusen, won the gold medal for the fourth time in succession at the Paralympics on Wednesday.
Show moreThe fixture details for the second round of the DFB Pokal 2024/25 have been confirmed. The home tie for Bayer 04 against second division SV 07 Elversberg is on Tuesday, 29 October with the kick off at 18.00 CET (live on Sky). That was announced by the German Football Association (DFB) on Thursday.
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