Guela Doue returns to grass training as Bayer Leverkusen defender steps up injury recovery

Bayer Leverkusen defender Guela Doue has taken an important step towards his return to action after resuming training on the pitch following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The Ivorian right-back was pictured working with the ball during Tuesday’s training session, with the Bundesliga club sharing images of his progress as he continues his recovery.

Doué has been unavailable since suffering a calf muscle injury in mid-September, just days after making his Bundesliga debut for the German side.

The 23-year-old sustained the injury during training ahead of Leverkusen’s Europa League encounter against NK Celje, with medical examinations confirming damage to his right calf.

The setback came shortly after his arrival from French club Racing Strasbourg during the summer transfer window.

Doué made his first appearance for the Werkself against Augsburg on September 12, coming off the bench to play 27 minutes in a 2-2 draw.

His return to individual training represents encouraging progress for head coach Carles Martínez, although the defender still faces further work before being considered fully fit.

Leverkusen have not announced a definitive return date, and his participation in upcoming matches remains uncertain.

The Bundesliga side will hope the Ivory Coast international can complete his rehabilitation without further setbacks and eventually strengthen their options at right-back.