Leverkusen signal interest to extend Patrik Schick’s contract

Despite being one of the most clinical strikers in the Bundesliga, Patrik Schick often found himself on the bench during Xabi Alonso’s tenure at Bayer Leverkusen.

That uncertainty led the Czech international to openly consider a transfer. But under new coach Erik ten Hag, the narrative has shifted, and Leverkusen are now looking to secure Schick’s long-term future.

Leverkusen want Schick to stay beyond 2027

Bayer’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes confirmed the club’s intent to extend Schick’s contract, which currently runs until 2027.

“Patrik is a key player for us. We can absolutely imagine him staying beyond 2027,” Rolfes said (per Bild), signalling a strong commitment to the 28-year-old.

This marks a change from the usual policy at Leverkusen, where the mantra typically is “extend or sell” when a player enters the final two years of his deal. However, with major departures like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong (both to Liverpool) and Jonathan Tah (to Bayern), selling Schick is no longer on the table.

Ten Hag’s system could unleash Schick-Boniface duo

Under former coach Xabi Alonso, who rigidly preferred a one-striker system, Schick often had to settle for a backup role behind Victor Boniface. This created tension and frustration, with Schick admitting earlier this year that he was unsure of his future at the club.

However, things appear to be changing under Erik ten Hag. Schick recently had a personal meeting with the new coach, who reportedly sees potential in pairing Schick and Boniface together in a more flexible attacking setup.

A resurgent season for Schick

Schick made a strong case for himself last season, returning from a nearly two-year injury struggle to deliver a productive campaign. He scored 21 Bundesliga goals, averaging one every 80 minutes, the best strike rate in the league.

Now fully fit and in top physical condition, Schick is not only a crucial piece of Leverkusen’s puzzle but also viewed as the central striker in ten Hag’s tactical plans. A contract extension would remove any remaining doubts about his role moving forward.

Had Alonso stayed, Schick may have been one of the club’s top candidates for a summer exit. But with a new coaching philosophy and strong backing from management, the door has reopened for a long-term future in Leverkusen.