Why Super Eagles forward was omitted from Bayer Leverkusen squad to face FC Copenhagen

Super Eagles forward Nathan Tella has been left out of Bayer Leverkusen’s squad to face FC Copenhagen on Thursday after sustaining a knee injury.

According to Sky Sport Germany, the 26-year-old picked up a knock in the Bayer Leverkusen's 3-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt last weekend.

He subsequently missed the club’s final training session on Wednesday and was not included in the traveling squad for the Europa League fixture at Parken Stadium.

Tella's absence comes as a setback for new Leverkusen head coach Kasper Hjulmand, who is looking to maintain the club's resurgence after a poor start to the season under former boss Erik ten Hag.

Since joining from Southampton, the Nigerian international has become a vital part of the squad, contributing 10 goals and 13 assists in 83 appearances across all competitions.

With no clear timeline set for his return, Hjulmand will be hoping the forward recovers swiftly to bolster Leverkusen’s campaign both domestically and in Europe.

Meanwhile, Tella will be eager to regain fitness in time to maintain his fine form and boost his chances of earning a Super Eagles call-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in October.

The forward had already missed Nigeria’s crucial September fixtures against South Africa and Rwanda.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com