Bayer Leverkusen has been a hub for incredible talent, consistently competing at the top level of German football. Here are the top 10 players who shaped the club’s success in the 21st century.
Simon Rolfes

- Games Played: 369
- Goals + Assists: 56 goals + 35 assists = 91 G+A
- Overview: A reliable midfielder and captain, Rolfes was the heart of Leverkusen’s midfield for over a decade. His leadership helped stabilize the team during their consistent runs in domestic and European competitions.
Bernd Leno
- Games Played: 304
- Clean Sheets: 100
- Overview: Leno was a dependable goalkeeper for Leverkusen, earning a reputation as one of the Bundesliga’s best shot-stoppers during his time at the club.
Michael Ballack

- Games Played: 108 (two spells)
- Goals + Assists: 27 goals + 22 assists = 49 G+A
- Overview: Ballack was instrumental in Leverkusen’s legendary 2001–02 season, where they finished second in three competitions. He returned later to lend his experience to the team.
Kai Havertz

- Games Played: 150
- Goals + Assists: 46 goals + 31 assists = 77 G+A
- Overview: A homegrown star, Havertz emerged as one of Europe’s brightest young talents. His technical brilliance and versatility in attack were key to Leverkusen’s successes during his tenure.
Stefan Kießling

- Games Played: 444
- Goals + Assists: 162 goals + 71 assists = 233 G+A
- Overview: Kießling was a prolific striker and the club’s all-time leading scorer in the Bundesliga. His Golden Boot-winning season in 2012–13 was a highlight of his career.
Dimitar Berbatov

- Games Played: 202
- Goals + Assists: 91 goals + 32 assists = 123 G+A
- Overview: Berbatov’s elegance and clinical finishing made him one of Leverkusen’s key players, particularly during their run to the 2002 Champions League final.
Arturo Vidal

- Games Played: 144
- Goals + Assists: 21 goals + 22 assists = 43 G+A
- Overview: Vidal’s tenacity and versatility in midfield were pivotal during his time at Leverkusen, helping the team maintain competitiveness in the Bundesliga.
Lars Bender

- Games Played: 342
- Goals + Assists: 26 goals + 38 assists = 64 G+A
- Overview: Known for his work ethic and tactical intelligence, Bender was a dependable figure for Leverkusen and served as a long-time captain.
Emerson

- Games Played: 156
- Goals + Assists: 27 goals + 15 assists = 42 G+A
- Overview: A dynamic midfielder, Emerson was a vital part of Leverkusen’s squad in the early 2000s, contributing to their competitive edge in both domestic and European tournaments.
Heung-Min Son

- Games Played: 87
- Goals + Assists: 29 goals + 11 assists = 40 G+A
- Overview: Son’s pace and finishing ability made him a standout performer during his short stint at Leverkusen, paving the way for his move to Tottenham Hotspur.
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