Bayer Leverkusen has suffered a considerable setback with news that attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz is set to miss multiple weeks due to a ligament injury. The injury occurred during the Bundesliga match against Werder Bremen on Saturday, impacting Wirtz's right ankle. The 21-year-old, who has played a vital role this season, is now unavailable for the critical Champions League Round of 16 return leg against Bayern Munich on Tuesday.
Leverkusen has emphasized the gravity of this loss, especially as they seek to overturn a challenging 3-0 first-leg deficit against Bayern in the Champions League. Wirtz's injury further complicates their hopes in the domestic league, where they currently trail leaders Bayern Munich by eight points. Moreover, Wirtz, who has recorded nine goals and ten assists in the league as well as six goals in this season's Champions League, will also miss Germany's upcoming Nations League quarter-finals against Italy.
Simon Rolfes, Bayer Leverkusen's Sporting Managing Director, acknowledged the significant hurdle the club faces without Wirtz. Despite this setback, he remains confident in the team's depth and quality. Rolfes also expressed optimism regarding Wirtz’s recovery, indicating they anticipate his return in time for the critical end-of-season matches.
7 Comments
Mariposa
I can't believe Bayer Leverkusen's luck. They seem to be cursed with injuries this season. 🤕
Matzomaster
Bayer Leverkusen needs a miracle now. Without Wirtz, their chances of winning either the Champions League or the Bundesliga are slim. 🤞
Rotfront
This is a major test for Bayer Leverkusen. They need to find a way to cope without Wirtz, or their season could fall apart. 💪
Karamba
This injury could have a long-term impact on Wirtz's career. He's still young, and hopefully he'll recover fully, but this is a serious setback. 🤕
Donatello
This is a huge loss for the Bundesliga. Wirtz is one of the most exciting young players in the league, and it's a shame he'll be sidelined for so long. 😔
Muchacha
I'm not sure who Bayer Leverkusen will turn to now. They don't have anyone else in the squad who can replace Wirtz's creativity and goals. 🙄
Muchacho
This is just not fair. Wirtz is such a talented player, and he was having a fantastic season. Now he'll miss out on the chance to help his team achieve something special. 😠