Name: Lars Bender

Nationality: Germany

Position: Central midfielder / Defensive midfielder

Date of birth: April 27, 1989

Clubs (notable):

• Bayer 04 Leverkusen (first team 2011–2021)
• TSG 1899 Hoffenheim (youth and senior debut on loan 2008–2010)
• 1. FC Köln (youth)
• TSG 1899 Hoffenheim II / Bayer Leverkusen II (youth/reserve appearances earlier in career)

Leverkusen career highlights:

• Joined Bayer Leverkusen in January 2011 (after Hoffenheim spell).
• Served as captain of Bayer Leverkusen for several seasons.
• Known for his leadership, tactical intelligence, stamina, strong tackling and distribution from midfield.
• Made over 250 Bundesliga appearances for Leverkusen.
• Played regularly in Bundesliga and UEFA Europa League/Champions League campaigns with the club.

International career:

• Represented Germany national team (senior debut 2011).
• Included in squads for major tournaments (part of Germany’s 2016–2017 era squads; notably selected for UEFA Euro 2016 squad).
• Earned multiple caps for Germany, contributing as a reliable midfield option.

Style of play and traits:

• Box-to-box and defensive midfield capabilities.
• Good positional sense, tackling and ball-winning ability.
• Effective passer with capacity to link defense and attack.
• Strong leadership — captained both club and was a senior presence in national setups.

Retirement / Later career:

• Lars Bender announced his retirement from professional football in October 2022, citing persistent knee injuries that limited his ability to continue at top level.

Personal note: He is the twin brother of Sven Bender, also a professional footballer who played alongside him at Bayer Leverkusen and for Germany, primarily as a defensive midfielder/centre-back.