Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso has given a positive update on Nigerian forward Nathan Tella, suggesting he may return to action in their upcoming DFB Pokal match against Arminia Bielefeld. Tella had been sidelined with a muscular injury picked up after Leverkusen’s 2-0 defeat to Werder Bremen before the international break.
The 25 year old was consequently withdrawn from Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe and has since missed Bundesliga fixtures against VfB Stuttgart and VfL Bochum.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Alonso said Tella is recovering well and could feature in the squad if he completes training without further issues. “He feels a lot better. If there’s no problems in training now, then he’ll be involved,” Alonso stated.
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However, the coach confirmed that defenders Edmond Tapsoba and Florian Wirtz will not be available, as the tie comes too soon for their recovery.
Before the injury, Tella had established himself as a key figure at Leverkusen, registering four goals and three assists in 32 appearances across all competitions. His potential return is a timely boost for Alonso’s side as they chase both the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal titles.
Editorial
Nathan Tella’s imminent return is not just welcome news for Bayer Leverkusen it’s a breath of fresh air for fans and coaches alike. The Nigerian forward has been quietly but effectively making a name for himself in Germany, blending pace with purpose in every outing. His absence, though brief, has been felt.
In a season where Leverkusen have emerged as a serious contenders on multiple fronts, squad depth is everything. Players like Tella, who offer versatility and work rate, are invaluable during the crunch stages of a campaign. Xabi Alonso’s cautious optimism speaks volumes Tella may not be a headline grabber every week, but he is undoubtedly trusted.
From Nigeria’s perspective, his return could also reignite hopes for future World Cup qualifiers. While his withdrawal from the recent squad was a blow, his recovery offers a silver lining. Staying fit and continuing to perform in a high-pressure Bundesliga environment will only strengthen his national team credentials.
This moment is a reminder of Tella’s growing influence not just in club football, but on the broader Nigerian football landscape. We look forward to seeing him back on the pitch, adding to his goal tally, and proving once again why he’s a talent worth watching.
Did You Know?
- Nathan Tella joined Bayer Leverkusen from Southampton in 2023 after a standout loan spell at Burnley, where he helped secure Premier League promotion.
- Bayer Leverkusen have never won the Bundesliga title, famously finishing second five times.
- Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen’s manager, won the UEFA Champions League twice as a player once with Liverpool and once with Real Madrid.
- Tella was born in England but is eligible to represent Nigeria through his parents and has publicly declared for the Super Eagles.
- The DFB Pokal is Germany’s premier domestic cup competition, and Leverkusen last won it in 1993.
