Ibrahim Maza is back in full training for Bayer Leverkusen after his recent knee problems and is in contention for a place in the starting XI.
Coach Kasper Hjulmand confirmed that the 20-year-old has completed the entire week’s sessions without any restrictions and is available for the upcoming match.
While Hjulmand admitted it is still unclear whether Maza already has the stamina for a full 90 minutes, he underlined his trust in the youngster, stating: “If a player is ready, he is also ready to play from the start.”
Under Hjulmand, Maza has developed into a highly flexible piece of Leverkusen’s tactical puzzle. The coach praised his growing tactical understanding and his improvement in the team’s overall build up play. Maza can operate in advanced attacking roles or drop deeper as a number six, adding valuable depth and versatility to the midfield.
He has also shown strong chemistry with key teammates, most recently combining well with Alejandro Grimaldo on the left flank.
Despite fierce competition for places in Leverkusen’s midfield, Maza’s rapid development and football intelligence mean he is now considered a crucial factor in the Werkself system. If his fitness holds up, the path back into the starting line up increasingly seems to run through him.
