Bayer Leverkusen are entering the new season under significant change, and the clearest sign of that came with the reported ousting of club captain Robert Andrich. New head coach Carles Martinez has switched from a back three to a back four, and according to kicker, Andrich was told directly by the club that his prospects of playing time had effectively disappeared. The 31-year-old, who led the side as captain after Granit Xhaka's departure and made 46 appearances last season, now looks set to leave despite a contract running until 2028. A move abroad has reportedly become a real possibility for the first time in his career.

The squad situation around that position carries its own complication. Leverkusen signed 17-year-old midfielder Kennet Eichhorn to fill the defensive midfield role, but reports confirm the teenager has been diagnosed with a metabolic condition that leaves his debut date completely uncertain.

On a more settled note, Leverkusen held firm on defender Jarell Quansah. Sky reported that Arsenal made a verbal offer of 60 million euros plus bonuses for the 23-year-old, but the club rejected it outright, making clear he is not for sale. Quansah joined from Liverpool last summer for 35 million euros and was a first-team regular throughout, making 44 appearances.

On the pitch, Martinez's side opened their cup campaign with a commanding 4-0 win at Wehen Wiesbaden in the DFB-Pokal first round, providing early momentum. Their next test comes in the Bundesliga away at Elversberg on August 29.