Justin Njinmah closing in on Werder Bremen comeback ahead of Hoffenheim clash

Justin Njinmah is edging closer to a return for Werder Bremen, with head coach Daniel Thioune hopeful that the forward can make his first appearance in nearly two months during Saturday’s Bundesliga home match against TSG Hoffenheim.

The 25-year-old has recently increased his training workload after suffering a serious thigh muscle injury during Werder’s 4-1 defeat to Freiburg at the start of the season.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Tuesday’s DFB-Pokal encounter against Borussia Dortmund, Thioune provided an encouraging update on the attacker’s recovery.

“Justin trained partially with the team last week and was fully involved in the substitute players’ training session on Sunday,” the Bremen manager explained. “We are planning to give him some minutes against Hoffenheim, if possible.”

Fitness remains key to Njinmah’s return

Despite the positive progress, Thioune stressed that Njinmah must demonstrate he is physically ready to compete at Bundesliga level before being considered for selection.

“That means he must be capable of playing at least 30 minutes at top level, at Bundesliga level,” the coach added.

The requirement reflects Werder’s cautious approach following the forward’s lengthy absence. The club wants to ensure he can cope with the intensity of competitive football without risking another setback.

Njinmah faces competition for minutes

Thioune is particularly looking forward to having Njinmah’s pace and counterattacking ability available again, qualities that could provide Bremen with another attacking dimension.

However, the manager made it clear that the forward will have to earn his place in the team after returning from injury.

Werder’s other attacking players have performed well during his absence, meaning Njinmah is unlikely to walk straight back into the starting lineup.

The immediate objective is to help him regain match fitness and gradually increase his involvement.

If his recovery continues as planned, Saturday’s meeting with Hoffenheim could mark an important step in Njinmah’s return, giving Bremen another option as they navigate a demanding run of Bundesliga and cup fixtures.