Aspirin-backed Leverkusen has a perpetual headache

By Ciaran Fahey

Associated Press

Published: Sunday, Feb. 12 2012 7:01 a.m. MST

Leverkusen's Michael Ballack warms up during the German first division Bundesliga soccer match between Borussia Dortmund and Bayer 04 Leverkusen Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012 in Dortmund, Germany.

Frank Augstein

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Summary

When Michael Ballack described Bayer Leverkusen as a "land of milk and honey for the players," he was highlighting what he sees as an inner malaise at his club.

BERLIN — When Michael Ballack described Bayer Leverkusen as a "land of milk and honey for the players," he was highlighting what he sees as an inner malaise at his club.

Despite boasting excellent facilities and the backing of one of the world's biggest pharmaceutical companies, Leverkusen is the perpetual runner-up.

Last year the German club finished second in the Bundesliga for the fifth time in 14 seasons, during which it also lost a Champions League final and two German Cup finals.

Ballack says a lack of ambition is to blame for Leverkusen's consistent failures at the last hurdle.

On Tuesday in the Champions League, its ambition will be fully tested against Barcelona, the defending Spanish league, European and world champions.

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