Despite finishing in the leading group, it’s not been one of Leverkusen’s better seasons. Bayer really did have their ups and downs. One major achievement of previous team coach Dutt was to enjoy a great run in the Champions League, which saw them successfully get through the qualifying stages. But that too ended in disaster when Bayer were totally taken apart in Barcelona. That was the end for Dutt, and a new beginning for Leverkusen. They’ve done well since under the guidance of a the new coaching duo Lewandowski and Hyppia. Bayer’s league form under Dutt was patchy to say the least. They just couldn’t find any kind of rhythm in order to string a few consecutive victories together. It’s a different story now though with Bayer still unbeaten under the new coaching duo. However, Hyppia has already made it clear he has no intention of continuing to coach Bayer as he is unable to handle the enormous stress which goes with the job. Leverkusen had their fair share of player problems too. Top goalkeeper Adler was out with a long term injury and is now moving to Hamburg. Michael Ballack has been unable to find his previous form since arriving from Chelsea and has now reached the end of the road. However, top striker Kiessling found his form again as did his partner Derdiyok. Stefan actually bagged most goals in the league in 2012, although Derdiyok may now be on his way to Hoffenheim. Schurrle fitted in well scoring some vital goals, and was often the forward who rescued Bayer in their hour of need. Leverkusen are an ambitious club and a demanding one. The stakes are high and one can be sure things will improve next season, as a Champions League slot is their ultimate goal.
