Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick admitted the upcoming international break has arrived at an inconvenient moment after continuing his red-hot form against RB Leipzig on Sunday. The Czech forward netted for a fourth consecutive Bundesliga match to inspire a 2-0 victory but expressed frustration that domestic momentum must now be paused.
Atletico Madrid have reignited their interest in Bayer Leverkusen's young sensation Ibrahim Maza as they look to strengthen their midfield. However, the Werkself are determined to hold on to the 20-year-old and are already preparing a lucrative new contract to fend off suitors.
Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has firmly dismissed sensational speculation linking the German club with a move for veteran striker Karim Benzema. Despite widespread reports suggesting direct contact between both parties following the forward's release in Saudi Arabia, the Rhineland hierarchy have ruled out any late market swoop.
Several high-profile stars have been left out of European squad lists following key deadline decisions. From Liverpool's Federico Chiesa and Real Madrid's Ferland Mendy to Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can, managers across the continent faced tough selection calls due to injuries and squad limits.
Son Heung-min has opened up about his journey from South Korea to Europe as a teenager. Appearing on The Late Run podcast, the forward recalled moving to Hamburg at 16 and using animated television show SpongeBob SquarePants to learn the German language.