over the last four Europa League seasons, the Germany forward has been involved in more goals (12 of his own; 12 assists) and created more chances (88) than any other player.

Both teams have accrued plenty of recent experience at various levels of UEFA's competition pyramid, so they will be ready to put on an absorbing spectacle on the Champions League's opening matchday.

As Leverkusen have a tactical maestro in the dugout and can call upon far more strength-in-depth from the bench, they will return home with maximum points, leaving Feyenoord empty-handed.