Super Eagles forward Nathan Tella has suffered another injury setback, raising concerns for both Bayer Leverkusen and Nigeria after he was forced off during Saturday’s goalless draw against Union Berlin at the BayArena.
The 25-year-old was involved in a heavy collision with Union goalkeeper Frederik Rønnow while chasing a loose ball midway through the first half.
Although Tella initially tried to carry on, he appeared to aggravate the injury shortly after landing awkwardly during a Leverkusen attacking move.
Despite managing to complete the first 45 minutes, he did not return after the break and was replaced by Moroccan winger Amine Adli.
According to German outlet 90min.de, Tella remained in the dressing room at halftime, with the club opting not to take any chances with his fitness.
The timing of the injury couldn’t be worse for Bayer Leverkusen, who are in the midst of a fierce Bundesliga title race.
His absence especially if extended could deal a significant blow to Leverkusen’s momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
Victor Boniface, another Nigerian forward, was on the bench after a quiet showing in the previous game.
He was introduced in the 75th minute but couldn’t break the deadlock in a match that offered few clear-cut chances.
Florian Wirtz also made his return from injury but wasn’t able to influence proceedings.
The draw leaves Leverkusen with 63 points, trailing Bayern Munich, who have 69 points after their 2-2 draw with Borussia Dortmund. With five games remaining, Leverkusen’s title hopes are diminishing.
Tella, who missed Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe due to fitness concerns, will be hoping this latest setback is only minor.
