By Dan Gaichas
Last year’s third place Bundesliga side are trying to the third horse in what has been a two- (sometimes one) horse race for the title. Leverkusen have never won the Bundesliga and have won the DFB Pokal just once in 1993. They have spent this season starting with Kevin Volland from Hoffenheim to the tune of €20 million. They also acquired Julian Baumgartlinger from Mainz at €4 million. Christoph Kramer returned to Borussia Moenchengladbach for €15 million.
Chicharito returns for Die Werkself after scoring 17 goals last season as does Charles Aranguiz who helped Chile life the Copa America Centenario. However, they will be without Danny Da Costa to start the season after having a metal rod removed on July 21st.
Chicharito, Image courtesy of ESPN FC
Manager Roger Schmidt likes to play a high pressure attack and Leverkusen is expected to the one the most exciting teams in the Bundesliga. The defense was third overall allowing just 38 goals led by goalkeeper Bernd Leno.
It’s been 2009 since Leverkusen were outside the top 5, but since 2011 since they finished runners-up. It’s either been 3rd or 4th after that. Last year, it was third, so no having to go through the playoff stage of the UEFA Champions League. An in-form and healthy attack this year, coupled with a defense that retains its form from last season, will see them at or near the top. The question is whether they have enough to at least make it a three-horse race for the title this coming season.
Leverkusen’s first match of the year will be at Gladbach on August 27th.
