On the return of Xabi Alonso, the mayor of San Sebastian, Eneko Goia, introduced the 2010 Spanish World Cup winner. Alonso and Javier García, president of the Fundación Columbus, fielded questions from media. We bring you the key statements from the Bayer 04 head coach.
Xabi Alonso on...
…the background to the game: We are united for a good cause. I encourage everybody to come along as the reason for this match is very special. We will help a lot of families with the proceeds from the game. Help to change the lives of a lot of children. It's a day to party.
...the meeting with Real Sociedad: A lot of people will be coming to the game who I know from my time here. I've shared a lot with them, they are very close to my heart. They are building a great project here, which is admired throughout the world, and they are doing that with lots of energy. I'm very much looking forward to seeing them all again.
...the sporting aspect of the clash: We are in the preseason exactly as are La Real We want to approach this friendly so that everybody can play. And we want to win it.
…the club Real Sociedad: I really learned a lot in my three years here as coach. Now I'm able to implement my knowledge at a big club like Bayer 04 with an outstanding team. Lots of players in the reserve side, who I trained here a year ago, have made the step up to the first team. It's a good team full of energy. The club has made impressive progress in recent years.
In mid-August, the Werkself will set off on a four-day trip to England to play their final two friendly matches of the 2026/27 pre-season against Premier League clubs Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United. The match in Nottingham against the Tricky Trees is on Wednesday 12 August at 20:45 CEST (19:45 BST) at the City Ground. The game against the Magpies in Newcastle is on Saturday 15 August at 16:00 CEST (15:00 BST) at the atmospheric St James’ Park. Details on ticket sales for both matches.
Show more
Black and Red talent development at the highest level – even off the pitch: Apprentices Jule Suermann, Leandra Bellia and Julia Niederheide have successfully completed their two- or three-year apprenticeships at the club. Bayer 04 honoured the trio at the BayArena on Tuesday.
Show more
The Germany U19 team were beaten 2-0 by record champions Spain in the final of the U19 European Championship in Wales. Bayer 04 players Montrell Culbreath and Francis Onyeka (on loan at SV 07 Elversberg) were in the starting line-up and played the full 90 minutes.
Show more
Bayer 04 Women have boosted their firepower with the signing of Poland international Paulina Tomasiak. The 24-year-old striker moves to Leverkusen from Gornik Leczna in her homeland on a two-year contract.
Show more
