Patrik Schick Leading Bayer Leverkusen To Top Form
Widely regarded as one of the most talented players in German football, Patrik Schick has been lighting up the Bundesliga this season. In fact, many believe Schick is the main reason why Bayer Leverkusen are now sitting third in the table.
Since joining the club in 2020, the Czech Republic forward has exceeded expectations and he is a fan favourite at the BayArena.
Patrik Schick is now a household name in European football. His influence at the 2020 European Championship attracted attention from some of the world’s leading clubs.
However, he remains loyal to Bayer Leverkusen and Schick is central to their aspirations. If Leverkusen want to mount a serious title challenge, they will need him on top form.
We take a look at Patrik Schick and his impact at Leverkusen over the past two years. Could we see one of the elite Premier League clubs move for him in the summer? Only time will tell…
Schick Is On Fire, Your Defence Is Terrified
Averaging a goal a game in the Bundesliga this season, Patrik Schick has been in unstoppable form. In fact, he has failed to score in just six of his 20 league appearances this term.
Leverkusen fans have seen a more ruthless side to Schick this season, with the striker’s new-found confidence giving a boost to the entire squad.
While no one player is bigger than the team, Schick has taken a leading role at BayArena this campaign. Leverkusen are not reliant on him for success but they are certainly stronger with him in the starting line-up.
The highlight for Schick must be his four-goal haul in Leverkusen’s 7-1 thrashing of Greuther Furth. Incredibly, the Czech forward bagged all four goals in the second half – much to the delight of the home supporters.
One of the most clinical strikers on the planet, Schick is now in the form of his life. Now 26 years old, Leverkusen are benefiting directly from his expertise in front of goal.
Defences are now beginning to focus on Schick – with some even choosing to man mark him out of the game. However, this approach has failed on more than one occasion this season as Leverkusen have emerged as comfortable winners.
Main Strengths
While he isn’t Jan Koller, Schick is tall enough to qualify as an aerial threat and that is an area of his game where he is particularly prolific.
The ability to compete in the air – at both ends of the pitch – is an impressive trait and that height advantage cannot be overlooked.
However, his biggest strength is undoubtedly his finishing ability. Give Schick a chance and he will score. No one is perfect but the Czech Republic striker is up there with Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane.
In terms of linking up with the midfielders, Schick is one of the best in the business. He is able to ghost around in a similar way to how Wayne Rooney used to play, helping to build attacks from deep.
Definitely more of a number 10 than a number nine, the Czech Republic forward is gifted on the ball and his nifty skillset is particularly useful in tight areas of the pitch.
An integral player for both club and country, Schick is a world class talent and it has been a joy to watch him light up the Bundesliga over the past two years.
Carrying The Czech Republic
Patrik Schick has climbed the international ladder, representing the Czech Republic from under-16 level right through to making his full debut in May 2016.
At just 22 years old, Schick announced himself on the international stage and he was an instant hit with supporters.
As of March 2022, Patrik Schick has earned over 30 caps for his country and he is one of the first names on the Czech Republic team sheet.
He won the coveted Goal of the Tournament award at Euro 2020 after his spectacular strike in the 2-0 victory over Scotland.
In addition, Schick was awarded the Silver Boot for finishing as the second-highest scorer in the competition. His performances that summer were enough to gain the attention of some of Europe’s biggest clubs…
With 17 goals in 33 international appearances, Schick has been a pillar of consistency for the Czech Republic. Arguably the most talented player on the team, Schick carries the hopes of an entire nation on his shoulders.
What Next For Patrik Schick?
A number of clubs circling like sharks to acquire Patrik Schick but Leverkusen will not want to sell him. Arsenal, linked with the Czech Republic star in the past, head the charge but no official move has been made.
Reports claim the Bayer Leverkusen man has a £50 million release clause but money is no obstacle for the Gunners. In today’s day and age, that might actually be a fair price for a player of Schick’s quality.
With 20 goals in 20 Bundesliga games this season, Schick has taken his game to new heights. Could the Czech Republic striker lead the line at the Emirates Stadium? It’s difficult to form a compelling argument against him…
Arsenal have looked to the Bundesliga for a striker before, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2013.
While Aubameyang has since departed for Barcelona, he was adored by Arsenal supporters and Schick would receive a similarly warm welcome. We could see transfer rumours start to pick up pace as the summer window approaches.
But for now, Schick remains dedicated to Bayer Leverkusen. Finishing third in the Bundesliga would constitute a brilliant campaign and Schick has undoubtedly been central to their progress.
Patrik Schick’s situation could look completely different on the opening weekend of the 2022/23 season. Whether he’s at BayArena, the Emirates Stadium or elsewhere, let’s hope he continues to light up the European football landscape.
