Bayer Leverkusen’s reputation as a formidable force in German football has been complex and multifaceted. Following their historic double win last season, which saw them go unbeaten in the domestic league, their performances in the current campaign have plunged into a quagmire of inconsistency and missed opportunities. While the team initially showcased impressive mental resilience, recent outings have led many to ponder what has gone wrong.
Last season, Leverkusen played with a kind of tenacity that often seemed to defy logic. They would emerge victorious from games where other teams faltered, punctuating their campaign with an impressive array of late goals — a trend that earned them affectionate nicknames like “Laterkusen” and “Meisterkusen.” As they transitioned into the 2023-24 season, one might have expected them to build on this success. Instead, they seem to be grappling with a crisis of confidence, epitomized by the freshly minted nickname “Luckypunchgegentorkusen.”
This new moniker encapsulates the frustrating phenomenon of conceding late goals against the run of play, a trend that has become all too familiar. The loss against VfL Bochum, where a late equalizer dashed the hopes of securing three points, exemplifies a worrying trend in Leverkusen’s performances. They initially took the lead but ultimately fell victim to the kind of unexpected setbacks that seemed to plague their opponents in previous seasons.
What is particularly alarming is the stark change in Leverkusen’s ability to protect leads. In the previous season, they were invulnerable once they took control of a match. However, in the current campaign, this fortitude has eroded significantly, leading to a staggering loss of 11 points from winning positions in just ten games. Matches that should have been seen as straightforward victories have become missed opportunities, with slip-ups against teams like RB Leipzig and Werder Bremen serving as glaring examples.
The team’s defensive structure appears to be compromised, especially after losing possession. The absence of a solid plan or cohesion has exposed vulnerabilities, leaving them open to counterattacks. The commentary from various players and management regarding “Körpersprache” (body language) and communication issues highlights deeper psychological concerns that seem to unsettle the squad.
Despite the apparent problems, the Leverkusen squad boasts significant talent on paper. The introduction of new players like Martin Terrier and Aleix García was meant to bolster an already potent lineup, yet it seems these additions have failed to yield the desired impact. Garcia’s limited appearances accentuate the inconsistency within the midfield; his partnership with Granit Xhaka lacks the necessary aggression compared to the previously reliable Robert Andrich.
This confusion in team dynamics can often lead to complacency. Key players like Lukas Hradecky and Edmond Tapsoba need to return to their previous levels of form; otherwise, the team’s overall output will continue to suffer. The dips in performance of already established players have left Leverkusen’s strengths hollow and their aspirations for glory considerably diminished.
Navigating the season with the shadow of Bayern Munich looming large, Leverkusen faces a grim reality. With a nine-point gap already separating them from the reigning champions, any hope of challenging for the title seems fleeting. The Champions League has produced mixed results, but expecting this iteration of the Werkself to reach the final in Munich feels overly optimistic at this stage.
Nevertheless, the imminent DFB-Pokal meetings, particularly against Bayern Munich, could serve as a turning point for Leverkusen. Knockout football often provides opportunities for upsets and can rejuvenate morale in the face of adversity. However, every match leading up to this must be approached with caution, as teams like Heidenheim — who are equally desperate for points — can exploit any lapse in concentration.
As Bayer Leverkusen navigates this rocky terrain, the overarching question remains: can they reclaim their winning mentality? The current situation demands introspection from both players and management. Finding a way to close out games, shoring up defensive vulnerabilities, and enhancing communication on the pitch are fundamental for dispelling the narrative of being a “Lucky Punch” team and rediscovering the resilience that once defined them.
Going forward, every game is a statement. Can they turn missed opportunities into triumphs? Only time will tell if this season can transform into one of redemption or if the specter of past glories merely serves as a haunting reminder of what once was.