Leverkusen without Grimaldo against Bayern - Schick back in top form - Bayer Leverkusen's defining week: Bayern clash and Arsenal showdown loom
Bayer Leverkusen prepare for a crucial week with two high-stakes matches. First, they host Bayern Munich in a Bundesliga top-of-the-table clash on Saturday. Just days later, they face Arsenal in the Champions League round-of-16 second leg.
Coach Kasper Hjulmand will be without key player Alejandro Grimaldo for both games. The left-winger is suspended, leaving a gap in attack. Grimaldo has been Leverkusen's standout performer this season, leading in goals, assists, shots, crosses, and duels won. In the Champions League alone, he has scored twice and provided six assists.
Hjulmand has called for a disciplined approach against Bayern. He wants his team to press with precision, stay compact defensively, and keep possession sharp. The aim is to replicate their strong display against Arsenal in the first leg.
There is positive news on the injury front. Patrik Schick has recovered from a muscle problem and is set to start after missing three matches. Nathan Tella also returns to the squad following a two-month absence.
Leverkusen enter the weekend with a near-full-strength squad, aside from Grimaldo's suspension. A win against Bayern would strengthen their Bundesliga title challenge. Attention will then shift to Tuesday's Champions League decider against Arsenal.
