Bayer Leverkusen flattered to deceive once again as another second half slump meant they missed out on a Champions League spot for a second season running.
Bayer started the season strongly, going unbeaten until December and for a brief period even occupied the top spot as they emerged as the closest challenger for Bayern Munchen. Key to their excellent start was the form of both Bailey and Diaby who put in some eye catching performances on the flanks while Patrick Schick and Lucas Alario chipped in with crucial goals up front.
Injuries and loss of form though took their toll and they experienced a dramatic fall in form at the turn of the year, managing just three wins between January and March resulting in Peter Bosz being sacked after Bayer dropped down to sixth place. Hannes Wolf took over on an interim basis and while the results stabilized, it was too little too late with Bayer having to settle for a sixth placed finish instead.
Bayer have announced Gerardo Seoane as the permanent replacement for the next season with Wolf leaving the club at the end of the season. With players retiring or leaving the club, Bayer will need to get their recruitment right if they are to put up a better challenge for a place in the top four next season.
