Nathan Tella ruled out of Bayer Leverkusen’s match against Union Berlin

Bayer Leverkusen will be without Nathan Tella for Saturday’s Bundesliga home fixture against Union Berlin as the winger continues to recover from back problems.

The 27-year-old attacker has now missed two consecutive league matches after also being unavailable for the season opener.

Despite the setback, there are positive signs in Tella’s rehabilitation. Head coach Carles Martinez confirmed the forward is making progress, although he remains some way from full match fitness.

“Yes, he’s getting better and he’s closer to recovery. But he’s out for tomorrow,” Martinez said during Friday’s press conference.

Tella’s absence forces Leverkusen to look elsewhere for attacking options against Union, with the coaching staff monitoring his condition closely before reintegrating him into the squad. No specific timeline has been given for his return, but a comeback appears to be on the horizon.

The English winger, who joined Leverkusen from Southampton, has been a useful squad member when available. His pace and direct running offer a different dimension in the final third, and his return will be welcomed once he is fully fit.