Aleix García answers Andrich criticism with impressive performance in Leverkusen’s derby victory

The Spanish midfielder had come under scrutiny following Leverkusen’s 1-0 Europa League defeat to Marseille on Thursday, when Andrich publicly questioned his attitude after he failed to track back following a misplaced pass in the build-up to the winning goal.

However, García provided the perfect response in Köln, opening the scoring after just seven minutes with a stunning direct free-kick from around 20 metres. The 29-year-old went on to deliver an impressive all-round performance, earning Man of the Match recognition as Leverkusen secured an important three points.

Speaking after the game, teammate Ibrahim Maza praised García’s response to the difficult week, highlighting his mentality and importance to the team.

“That shows his attitude and mentality. Today you could see what an important player he is for us. He perhaps had a slightly difficult period in the last few games. That happens. He has played every game so far, and naturally that takes its toll physically and mentally,” Maza explained.

“Today he answered with an incredible goal, and afterwards he had the game under control. I thought it was a great reaction from him.”

Edmond Tapsoba also addressed the situation between García and Andrich, insisting that there were no lasting issues within the Leverkusen dressing room.

“We talk about it as a team. We don’t take it as a serious issue, we sort things out internally. We live like a family, and something like that can happen,” the defender explained.

Tapsoba added that the important thing was to take criticism in the right way and continue working together towards their collective ambitions.

Head coach Carles Martínez also played down the situation, explaining that the two midfielders have a good relationship and had spoken following the incident.

“The two have a good connection and talk to each other. Sometimes things are exaggerated on the outside. Inside, life goes on,” Martínez said.

The Leverkusen coach was also pleased with García’s response on the pitch, highlighting how the midfielder had approached the game with greater aggression.

“Errors are part of football. What matters is reacting and understanding why something happened. If the same situation comes around again, you have to deal with it differently. Today he was more aggressive,” Martínez added.

García’s contribution proved particularly important as Leverkusen ended a difficult run of results with a valuable derby victory. Patrik Schick doubled their advantage in the 85th minute before Said El Mala pulled one back for Köln in stoppage time.

The result leaves Leverkusen heading into the international break on a positive note, with García having delivered a timely reminder of his importance to the side.