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."
Liverpool could hardly have made a better start to this season, sitting top of the Premier League, boasting three wins from three in the UEFA Champions League, and through to the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup. Arne Slot’s side are in imperious form ahead of hosting the Werkself at Anfield, where Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and the others want to keep that momentum going against Germany’s double winners. Here’s all you need to know about our next opponents…
Show moreXabi Alonso spent five years as a player at Liverpool. It was where he developed into a global star, winning the Champions League with The Reds in 2005 and, subsequently, three more trophies. Now he's making his first return to the Anfield Road as Bayer 04 coach. We reflect on his time at the club and take a look back at the Werkself's two previous encounters with the Liverpudlians.
Show moreBayer 04 are away at Liverpool for Matchday 4 of the UEFA Champions League’s league phase on Wednesday. Ahead of the trip to Anfield, we’ve got some travel tips for all fans making the journey, thanks to our partner weloveholidays.
Show moreThe next opponents in the 2024/25 DFB Pokal have been confirmed: The Werkself are away to Bayern Munich in the Round of 16. That was the outcome of the draw held on Sunday night, 3 November, at the German Football Museum in Dortmund. DFB sporting director Rudi Völler led the draw with European championship saxophonist André Schnura picking out the teams.
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