Bayer Leverkusen is set to welcome back midfielder Exequiel Palacios just in time for their Bundesliga match against Hoffenheim. The Argentine has been sidelined for the early part of the season following meniscus surgery, which he required after sustaining an injury during the Copa America. With Leverkusen set to return to action after the international break, head coach Xabi Alonso revealed that Palacios is now fit and ready to rejoin the squad. “He has trained well with the team during the break, and his progress has been excellent,” Alonso stated, adding that the final decision on his inclusion would come after the last training session. However, he emphasized that it was “very good news” to have Palacios available once again.
Palacios’ absence has left a notable gap in Leverkusen’s midfield, forcing Alonso to experiment with different combinations. The versatile Robert Andrich and the recently signed Aleix Garcia have both stepped in alongside Granit Xhaka, though their performances have varied. While Garcia offers more creativity, Andrich brings more physicality to the role. However, for the match against Hoffenheim, Andrich is expected to retain his spot, with Palacios likely to be eased back into action after his extended recovery.
Frimpong to Start on the Bench, Mukiele Set for Debut
In other team news, Jeremie Frimpong, who has been dealing with personal matters and has trained individually for much of the week, is unlikely to start the game. The dynamic right wing-back has only recently rejoined team training, and as a result, Nathan Tella is expected to take his place in the starting XI. Tella, known for his pace and attacking instincts, will slot into the right-wing-back position as Frimpong works his way back to full readiness.
Additionally, Leverkusen’s defensive line is set for a potential shake-up, with Nordi Mukiele in line to make his first appearance for the club. Mukiele’s versatility could see him replace either Piero Hincapié or Edmond Tapsoba in Leverkusen’s back three, providing Alonso with more defensive options. This adjustment comes with one eye on the club’s busy schedule, as they prepare for their Champions League opener against Feyenoord next week. The possibility of resting key players like Frimpong and Tapsoba suggests that Alonso is looking to manage his squad carefully, ensuring fresh legs for both domestic and European competitions.
Squad Rotation Key as Leverkusen Eye Champions League Return
Leverkusen’s match against Hoffenheim takes on added importance as they seek to maintain momentum in the Bundesliga while also preparing for their return to the Champions League. The upcoming fixture against Feyenoord looms large, and Alonso is likely to use the weekend game to rotate his squad, preserving some of his key players for the challenge ahead. The return of Palacios, alongside the possible debut of Mukiele, offers Alonso flexibility as he navigates the demands of competing on multiple fronts.
