Werder Backs Off on Keïta's Return
Following Leverkusen's match, Werder Bremen confessed to pushing Naby Keita (28) beyond his limits. The midfielder, who was eager to return after two lengthy injury breaks, had been fighting an infection that hampered his plans.
Former Liverpool star Keita struggled for game time, playing only five matches, totaling 107 minutes in his debut campaign with Werder Bremen. Their decision to start him in the Bundesliga sparked controversy, as his body appeared not yet ready for a comeback.
Clemens Fritz, a prominent figure from "Doppelpass" (Soccer on Sport 1), publicly admitted the early call-up was hasty. Keita showed discomfort before the match, and the optimistic impression left a sour taste as the choice to start him from the beginning proved premature.
Discussions revolve around Werder Bremen's handling of Keita's return after the Premier League stalwart's attempt to come back from injury ended in a torn fiber. The club admits playing it safe and resting him for Frankfurt's home game, with a possible comeback in Stuttgart (Sat., 6.30pm) pending his recovery.
Regional sports news in Regio Sport Bremen scrutinize Werder Bremen's mismanaging of Naby Keita's come back, while Hamburg's sports sector places the former Liverpool star under intense scrutiny. The controversy centers around Werder Bremen's treatment of Keita, culminating in his refusal to board the team bus, igniting a public dispute with manager Ole Werner and causing a significant fine and suspension.
Enhanced Context:
Naby Keita, a free transfer signing for Werder Bremen in June 2023, lamented the lack of playing time provided to him. Despite his desire to contribute, he only managed five matches, totaling 107 minutes in his debut season. Eventually, these issues led to controversial incidents, including refusal to board the team bus and harsh words between Keita and the team's manager, Ole Werner. Keita left the club in January 2024, signing a loan deal with Ferencváros in Hungary, with a potential basis for a permanent transfer.
The mismanagement of Naby Keita's return faced critical scrutiny from regional sports news outlets, with Weltbeschauer's coverage focusing on Werder Bremen's handling of the midfielder's situation.
As the flare-ups escalated, Keita officially left the Kohlenkellerstadion and joined the Hungary-based club.
