Leverkusen vs. RB Leipzig preview: A match with major European ramifications
Leipzig travel to high-flying Leverkusen on Sunday afternoon in hopes of bettering their chances of securing a spot in next season’s Champions League.
Leverkusen
Not many would have believed that Leverkusen would be the last German side remaining in a European competition. Yet, here we are. It’s been an incredible turnaround for Xabi Alonso’s men, who have a lot to play for in the Bundesliga as well.
With Mainz’s win over Bayern, Leverkusen have dropped to 7th place and might have to win every remaining game to claim a Champions League spot. Still, a top 6 finish would be admirable considering Bayer’s horrific start to the campaign.
On Matchday 29, look for Alonso to make some rotations due to his team’s intense last couple of weeks.
The trainer commented, "We still have a chance in the Bundesliga to get into the European Cup. We want to take advantage of it!"
Team News
Andrey Lunev and Patrik Schick aren’t available with lingering injuries, while it’s unclear if Callum Hudson-Odoi and Edmond Tapsoba will be squad options. Exequiel Palacios should play after dealing with thigh problems midweek.
RB Leipzig
Following three straight losses, Leipzig have bounced back and won their last three competitive games in a row. However, their 4th-place spot could be gone by the time this game starts if Freiburg are victorious against Schalke.
Christopher Nkunku returned as a substitute last week, but a spot in the starting lineup may come too soon. After his brace on Matchday 28, Timo Werner should feature from the first whistle and Lukas Klostermann will likely start again even with the return of Mohamed Simakan.
When asked about their opponent, Marco Rose said, "They've got Florian Wirtz coming into better and better form. He's someone who can change the game and they've been without him for a long time. He takes them to an even higher level."
Team News
Simakan, Emil Forsberg and Yussuf Poulsen are all available once again, but Andre Silva is questionable with a knock. Peter Gulacsi and Xaver Schlager are still dealing with long-term injuries, while David Raum can’t play due to suspension.