Bayer 04 Leverkusen Squad 2024/25
Bayer 04 Leverkusen, one of Germany’s most exciting football clubs, has consistently been a force to reckon with in the Bundesliga and European competitions. Known for their dynamic style of play, emphasis on youth development, and strategic recruitment, Leverkusen has built a squad capable of challenging for domestic and international honors. The 2024/25 season sees the club boasting a blend of experienced veterans, emerging talents, and shrewd acquisitions. This post delves into the squad, breaking it down into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, with detailed descriptions of each player, including their backgrounds, career trajectories, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
1. Lukáš Hrádecký
Lukáš Hrádecký, the stalwart between the posts, continues to be Leverkusen’s first-choice goalkeeper. The Finnish international, born on November 24, 1989, joined the club in 2018 from Eintracht Frankfurt for a fee of €8 million. Known for his commanding presence, exceptional reflexes, and leadership, Hrádecký has been instrumental in Leverkusen’s defensive solidity. With over 300 Bundesliga appearances, his experience is invaluable. He has also earned 90 caps for Finland, often being their standout performer in international competitions.
2. Patrick Pentz
Patrick Pentz, the Austrian shot-stopper, was signed in 2023 from Reims for €3.5 million as a reliable backup to Hrádecký. Born on January 2, 1997, Pentz brings agility and composure to the squad. His time at Austria Wien, where he made over 150 appearances, honed his skills, making him a dependable option. Pentz has also represented Austria at various youth levels and is pushing for a senior team call-up.
3. Niklas Lomb
Niklas Lomb, a product of Leverkusen’s youth academy, serves as the third-choice goalkeeper. Born on July 28, 1993, Lomb has spent most of his career in the lower tiers of German football, gaining experience at clubs like VfL Osnabrück and Würzburger Kickers. While he has yet to make a Bundesliga appearance, his dedication and work ethic make him a valuable member of the squad.
Defenders
1. Jonathan Tah
Jonathan Tah, the towering center-back, has been a cornerstone of Leverkusen’s defense since his arrival in 2015 from Hamburger SV for €7 million. Born on February 11, 1996, Tah combines physicality with technical ability, making him a modern defender. With over 250 appearances for the club and 20 caps for Germany, his leadership and consistency are unmatched.
2. Edmond Tapsoba
Edmond Tapsoba, signed from Vitória de Guimarães in 2020 for €18 million, has developed into one of the Bundesliga’s finest defenders. Born on February 2, 1999, the Burkinabé international excels in aerial duels and ball distribution. His performances have attracted interest from top European clubs, but Leverkusen has managed to retain his services.
3. Piero Hincapié
Piero Hincapié, the Ecuadorian left-back, joined Leverkusen in 2021 from Talleres for €6.5 million. Born on January 9, 2002, Hincapié is known for his pace, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute to attacks. He has become a regular starter and a key player for both club and country, earning over 30 caps for Ecuador.
4. Jeremie Frimpong
Jeremie Frimpong, the dynamic right-back, arrived from Celtic in 2021 for €11 million. Born on December 10, 2000, Frimpong’s blistering speed and attacking prowess make him a nightmare for opposition defenders. With over 100 appearances for Leverkusen and 15 caps for the Netherlands, he is one of the most exciting full-backs in Europe.
5. Odilon Kossounou
Odilon Kossounou, signed from Club Brugge in 2021 for €23 million, is a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and right-back. Born on January 4, 2001, the Ivorian international is known for his strength and tactical intelligence. He has quickly adapted to the Bundesliga and is a regular starter for Leverkusen.
6. Timothy Fosu-Mensah
Timothy Fosu-Mensah, a free transfer from Manchester United in 2021, provides depth in defense. Born on January 2, 1998, the Dutchman can play across the backline. Despite injury setbacks, his experience in the Premier League and Bundesliga makes him a valuable squad player.
Midfielders
1. Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz, the crown jewel of Leverkusen’s midfield, is one of the most exciting young talents in world football. Born on May 3, 2003, Wirtz joined from Köln’s youth academy in 2020 for €200,000. His creativity, vision, and goal-scoring ability have drawn comparisons to Mesut Özil. With over 100 appearances for Leverkusen and 15 caps for Germany, Wirtz is already a key player for club and country.
2. Exequiel Palacios
Exequiel Palacios, signed from River Plate in 2020 for €17 million, is a tenacious midfielder known for his work rate and passing range. Born on October 5, 1998, the Argentine international has become a mainstay in Leverkusen’s midfield, contributing both defensively and offensively.
3. Robert Andrich
Robert Andrich, acquired from Union Berlin in 2021 for €6.5 million, is a combative midfielder who provides balance to the team. Born on September 22, 1994, Andrich’s leadership and ability to break up play have made him a fan favorite.
4. Amine Adli
Amine Adli, signed from Toulouse in 2021 for €8 million, is a versatile attacking midfielder. Born on May 10, 2000, the Moroccan international is known for his dribbling and creativity. He has become an important player for Leverkusen, contributing goals and assists.
5. Kerem Demirbay
Kerem Demirbay, a seasoned midfielder, joined from Hoffenheim in 2019 for €32 million. Born on July 3, 1993, the German international is known for his set-piece expertise and passing ability. Despite facing competition for places, he remains a valuable squad member.
Forwards
1. Patrik Schick
Patrik Schick, Leverkusen’s star striker, joined from Roma in 2020 for €26.5 million. Born on January 24, 1996, the Czech international is a clinical finisher with a knack for scoring spectacular goals. His 24-goal Bundesliga campaign in 2021/22 cemented his status as one of Europe’s top forwards.
2. Adam Hložek
Adam Hložek, signed from Sparta Prague in 2022 for €13 million, is a versatile forward capable of playing across the front line. Born on July 25, 2002, the Czech prodigy has already made over 50 appearances for Leverkusen, showcasing his potential.
3. Moussa Diaby
Moussa Diaby, a pacey winger, joined from Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 for €15 million. Born on July 7, 1999, the French international is known for his speed and dribbling. With over 150 appearances for Leverkusen, Diaby has been a consistent performer.
4. Sardar Azmoun
Sardar Azmoun, signed from Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2022 for €2.5 million, is a prolific striker. Born on January 1, 1995, the Iranian international has a proven track record in front of goal, both domestically and internationally.
5. Callum Hudson-Odoi
Callum Hudson-Odoi, a loan signing from Chelsea in 2023, adds flair and creativity to Leverkusen’s attack. Born on November 7, 2000, the English winger is known for his dribbling and crossing ability.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Bayer 04 Leverkusen Squad is a perfect blend of youth and experience, with players capable of competing at the highest level. From the reliable goalkeeping of Lukáš Hrádecký to the attacking brilliance of Florian Wirtz and Patrik Schick, this team is built for success. With a mix of homegrown talents and shrewd signings, Leverkusen is poised to make a significant impact in the Bundesliga and beyond. The future looks bright for Die Werkself as they continue to challenge for silverware and entertain fans with their exciting brand of football.