Andrich on title fight: Leverkusen wants to scare Bayern again!

Andrich on title fight: Leverkusen wants to scare Bayern again!

After a relaxing summer vacation with his good friend and Bayern star Joshua Kimmich in Ibiza, the voices surrounding Robert Andrich from Bayer 04 Leverkusen are increasing. The midfielder has a lot to say in discussions about the football pressure that Bayer has put on Bayern over the last two years. “We have contributed a lot to the fact that they have now celebrated the championship more than in the last ten years,” explains Andrich, who is firmly convinced that Bayer 04 plays a central role in this competition. Ultimately, Leverkusen dethroned Bayern in 2024 after eleven titles in a row, although Munich were able to fight back the following year and celebrate their 34th championship, as neunzigplus.de reports.

In the context of the approach to the next season, Andrich explains that the demands at Bayer 04 have increased. “We are aiming for a new attack on the title,” said the international, who counts himself as one of the longest-serving players in the team, especially after Jonathan Tah’s move to Bayern. Together with players like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, who have also left the club, he clearly sees a responsibility to bring new life into the team and take on more leadership.

A change in Leverkusen

The upheaval at Bayer 04 cannot be dismissed. Andrich emphasizes that the departures of key players who cannot be replaced one-to-one represent both a challenge and an opportunity. “I want to assert myself in the center against Granit Xhaka, Exequiel Palacios and the injured Aleix Garcia,” says Andrich. New coach Erik ten Hag hasn't given him much opportunity to speak specifically yet, but Andrich is counting on the time in training to get to know himself better and assert himself in the squad, especially so as not to jeopardize his participation in the 2026 World Cup.

While rumors of possible departures continue to circulate, such as Granit Xhaka considering a move to Saudi Arabia's Neom SC, Andrich remains optimistic. Although he doesn't rule out a move in the future if things don't develop with the new coach, he reiterates his goal of challenging Bayern again with Bayer 04.

Leverkusen has clearly set the direction: With a new coach and fresh ambitions, we are heading into an exciting season. Andrich, who is tied to Bayer until 2028, remains a central player in this development. How the season will unfold remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Bayer 04 Leverkusen is ready for battle.

You can find out more about Bayer 04 Leverkusen's team statistics at kicker.de.