Ibrahim Maza injury doubt for Bayer Leverkusen against Mainz

Ibrahim Maza’s friendly match for Algeria against Niger ended after just 40 minutes because of injury, raising doubts over his availability for Bayer Leverkusen’s next Bundesliga game.

The 20-year-old midfielder was caught on the upper part of his right ankle by an opponent’s studs during a challenge for the ball. He tried to continue, but eventually went down in visible pain and was substituted after a short period of treatment.

Leverkusen now face an anxious wait to learn the full extent of the problem. Maza’s participation in Saturday’s away match against Mainz 05, scheduled for 15:30, is therefore in serious doubt.

If he is unable to feature, Malik Tillman is the most likely alternative for the attacking midfield role. Leverkusen will want a clearer diagnosis in the coming days before deciding whether Maza can travel or needs further treatment.

The injury is untimely for both club and country. Maza had been given a chance to impress during the international break, but the challenge against Niger has now left Leverkusen waiting for news on one of their promising young players.