Ragnar Ache nears return to FC Koln squad ahead of Bayer Leverkusen derby

Ragnar Ache is closing in on a return to action for FC Koln after recovering from a thigh injury, with the striker in contention for Sunday’s Bundesliga derby against Bayer 04 Leverkusen.

The 28-year-old has been sidelined for approximately four weeks after suffering a muscular injury that forced him to miss several matches.

However, Ache has made encouraging progress in his recovery and could return to the matchday squad for the first time since his injury.

Speaking at Friday’s press conference, head coach René Wagner confirmed that the striker was in a better physical condition than last week and remained an option for Sunday’s encounter.

“Ragi is definitely in a better condition than last week. Therefore, he is definitely an option for the squad,” Wagner explained.

The Köln manager added that a final decision regarding his inclusion would be made on Sunday.

Ache unlikely to start against Leverkusen

Despite his progress, Wagner ruled out the possibility of Ache immediately returning to the starting eleven.

The striker has only recently completed his first full training session with the team, meaning the coaching staff intend to manage his recovery carefully.

“Ragi, not just yet,” Wagner said when asked whether the forward could start against Leverkusen.

However, the coach believes Ache could still make a difference if introduced during the game, with his physical presence and attacking qualities offering Köln another option in the final third.

His potential return also creates a selection dilemma for Wagner, particularly after Malek El Mala impressed on his Bundesliga debut against Union Berlin by scoring the equaliser in the 1-1 draw.

Köln receive attacking boost ahead of derby

Ache’s availability would be welcome news for Köln, who have dealt with several injury problems in their attacking department this season.

The striker will hope to regain full match fitness and gradually establish himself in Wagner’s plans as the campaign progresses.

Köln host Bayer Leverkusen at the RheinEnergieStadion on Sunday, November 8, with kick-off scheduled for 15:30 CET.

A place on the bench appears the most realistic starting point for Ache’s comeback as the Billy Goats prepare for their local derby.