Bayer Leverkusen's Europa League victory against Molde FK wasn't just a showcase of their star-studded lineup, but also a testament to their robust bench. 18-year-old Noah Mbamba and 16-year-old Ken Izekor, alongside goalkeeper Niklas Lomb, shone brightly, proving that Bayer isn't a one-man team. Coach Xabi Alonso, who made nine substitutions, confirmed that their depth is their strength.
Even with key players like Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka, and Jeremie Frimpong taking a well-deserved break, Bayer maintained their impressive form, outplaying Molde FK. But the real challenge lies ahead. The Africa Cup looms, and stars like Victor Boniface, Edmond Tapsoba, Odilon Kossounou, Amine Adli, and Nathan Tella could be missing in action for crucial matches.
Xabi Alonso, however, remains unfazed. "I'm not crying. I'm not a victim," he declared. "We have enough players." Sporting director Simon Rolfes echoed the same sentiment, assuring that Bayer has a deep pool of talented players. They enjoy playing soccer, and the squad works cohesively, no matter who steps in.
While Bayer's strategy for coping with the Africa Cup absences isn't publicly announced, their recent performance against TSG Hoffenheim suggests they have capable substitutes. Victor Boniface, for instance, scored his seventh goal in 11 outings, illustrating that their bench is more than just a makeweight. Moreover, the club's proactive approach to handling transfer rumors and player absences indicates they're prepared for adversity.
In essence, Bayer Leverkusen's start in the Europa League highlights their strength in depth, their amazing young talent, and their admirable resilience. Come what may, they seem ready to face the challenges ahead.
