Bayer Leverkusen Striker Schick Fit for German Cup Clash

As of October 29th, 2025, Bayer Leverkusen's striker Patrik Schick is fit and available for their upcoming German Cup second round clash against second division side Paderborn. Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand confirmed Schick's recovery in a news conference on Tuesday, stating that the player "worked very hard on his comeback" from a recent hamstring injury.

However, Hjulmand remained tight-lipped on whether Schick will be in the starting lineup for Wednesday's match. "I'm not going to publicly reveal who will or won't play the day before the game," the coach said, adding that Leverkusen have "very good options up front."

Leverkusen are the defending German Cup champions, having won the trophy in their unbeaten 2023-24 season that also saw them claim their maiden Bundesliga title under coach Xabi Alonso. Last season, they were surprisingly eliminated in the semi-finals by then third-division side Arminia Bielefeld.

Hjulmand acknowledged the team's respect for the cup competition and their opponents, but emphasized their "full focus on progressing" in this year's tournament. With Schick's return and the squad's depth, Leverkusen will be aiming to defend their German Cup crown and continue their successful run.