"For us, visiting the children here in the Leverkusen hospital has become a tradition and absolutely a matter of the heart," said Lukas Hradecky on site. "Unfortunately, it's not possible to spend time with them this year. We hope we will have the opportunity for that next year." Due to the respiratory disease RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) the children's hospital in Leverkusen asked in advance for the visit to be shortened and held outside the children's ward.
Lukas Hradecky, who thanked the doctors and care staff for their work during his visit, therefore gave the presents for the children to Dr Frank Meier, senior physician at the children's clinic at the Leverkusen hospital, and his team. The nurses distributed the gifts of toys and clothing to the children on the ward – and together with Bayer 04 were able to provide some joy in the time before Christmas.
The German Football Association (DFB) has officially recognised Bayer 04 as a centre for the development of female talent for the 2026/27 season. The club was awarded that role on 1 January 2026, and this status has now been renewed.
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Bayer 04 Leverkusen have sold young defender Andrea Natali to AZ Alkmaar on permanent terms. The 18-year-old Italian was on loan at the Dutch club last season, where he mainly played for the reserve team in the second division.
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Bayer 04 Leverkusen have loaned new signing Luca Erlein to newly promoted FC Energie Cottbus for the 2026/27 season. This will give him the opportunity to play in Bundesliga 2. The club signed the 19-year-old right-back on a permanent basis last week, on a contract to 30 June 2030.
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Trophies as a youth, appearances in the pro game and his first taste of international competition: new arrival Luca Erlein, who has been signed from TSG Hoffenheim, can already look back on some remarkable achievements and moments in his fledgling career. We take a closer look at the 19-year-old right-back, who can also fill other roles across the defensive line.
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