Hjulmand praises Nathan Tella’s impact after goal and assist sink Leipzig

Bayer Leverkusen head coach Kasper Hjulmand has singled out Nathan Tella for praise after the forward played a decisive role in a commanding 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig on Saturday, underlining his growing importance in the club’s push for European qualification.

Tella delivered one of his most influential performances of the season at the BayArena, scoring once and providing an assist as Leverkusen overpowered their opponents with a sharp, high-tempo display. The win strengthened their position in the Bundesliga top four, lifting them to 58 points and reinforcing their bid for a UEFA Champions League place.

After the match, Hjulmand was quick to highlight the forward’s tactical and physical contribution, particularly his ability to stretch defences and sustain attacking pressure throughout the game.

Speaking to Liga Insider, the Danish coach emphasised Tella’s value in transition and his constant willingness to attack space behind opposition lines. “He gives us a lot of energy and quality overall – especially in depth,” Hjulmand explained as quoted by Liga Insider.

The performance marked another step forward in Tella’s revival at Leverkusen following a difficult spell earlier in the season. The 26-year-old, who joined from Southampton, was sidelined by two separate injuries that disrupted his early momentum in Germany and limited his consistency in the squad.

Since returning to full fitness, however, Tella has begun to re-establish himself as a reliable attacking option. He now has one goal and three assists in seven Bundesliga appearances, numbers that reflect his growing influence in the final third and his improving rhythm within the team structure.

Leverkusen’s coaching staff have been encouraged by his sharpness and tactical discipline since his comeback, with his direct style offering an added dimension to their forward play. His ability to operate across the frontline has also provided Hjulmand with greater flexibility in selection and in-game adjustments.