Who Will Be Bayer Leverkusen New Captain?

Bayer Leverkusen have undergone a serious change this transfer window, plenty of big & key names, including the captain, made way for new signings. With the former manager of the Red Devils, Erik Ten Hag, at the helm, it was expected that he would have to pick a new captain for the upcoming 2025/26 season. And no one seemed as influential as Robert Andrich, who looks set to take over as Bayer Leverkusen new captain. Everyone saw the midfielder wearing the armband throughout the pre-season games. New coach Erik ten Hag seems to have made up his mind on the Bayer Leverkusen captain role.
The Dutchman praised Andrich's leadership skills this week, as he stated, "He's a leader. You can see it," the new coach said. “He communicates. He's present. He's a role model for the team.”

Robert Andrich has stepped up since arriving at Leverkusen. But what really stood out about him was his communication with his teammates on the pitch and the way he organizes the midfield impressed Ten Hag with what he sees. Leverkusen have lost several key players this summer. Granit Xhaka left for Inter Milan. Jonathan Tah joined the league rivals Bayern Munich. However, the most shocking thing was when they let one of the best attacking midfielders in the world in 2025 join the English champions Liverpool alongside Jeremie Frimpong.

Why is Robert Andrich the Right Choice?

This means the club needs new leaders, and Andrich appears ready to fill that role. "It always feels good to wear the armband," Andrich said recently. "You can get used to it." Erik Ten Hag called Andrich wearing the captain's armband "a sign" when asked about it. The coach has given him chances to lead the team in friendly matches. Andrich has become more important in Ten Hag's system. His ability to break play in midfield and commence attacking plays impressed the Dutchman. Not to forget his ability to connect with his teammates constantly during games.

The 29-year-old joined Leverkusen from Union Berlin. He knows the Bundesliga well. His experience could help the team after losing so many players. Leverkusen will play two more friendlies before the season starts. They face the Italian club Pisa on August 5 and on August 8, they play Chelsea. The official announcement about Bayer Leverkusen new captain could come soon. All signs point to Andrich getting the job. Their first competitive game for the new season 2025/26 is on August 15 (DFB Cup). Their Bundesliga season starts on August 23 against Hoffenheim.

Andrich's promotion could help several people. The player himself gets more responsibility and recognition. His leadership experience will be valuable. Ten Hag gets a captain who knows German football well. Andrich has played in the Bundesliga for years. He understands what it takes to succeed here. The younger players at Bayer Leverkusen will benefit too. The German midfielder can guide them through tough games. His voice on the pitch helps organize the team.

Leverkusen fans should be happy with this choice. Andrich works hard every game. He never gives up. These are qualities supporters love to see in their captain. The club also benefits from having a stable leader. After losing so many key players, they need someone reliable. Andrich fits that role perfectly.