Xabi Alonso Provides Update on Nathan Tella's Fitness Ahead of Kiel Match

Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso reveals Nathan Tella's fitness concern ahead of their crucial Bundesliga match at Kiel.

Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella is a doubt for their upcoming Bundesliga game at Holstein Kiel, coach Xabi Alonso revealed on Friday. With Leverkusen desperate to close the eight-point gap to leaders Bayern Munich, Alonso provided an update on Tella's status, saying, “It is something to do with the hip. It is no injury but we have to see how Nathan feels today in training. It's a discomfort.”

Leverkusen, currently in second place with 12 league matches remaining, will face a struggling Kiel side that sits in last place with 13 points. Despite the favorable matchup, Leverkusen is looking to build on the valuable lessons learned from their 0-0 draw against Bayern Munich last week. Alonso reflected on the game, saying, “It is a week later but we profited from this game. What we did was good against the best opponent in Germany.”

Alonso expressed confidence in his team's ability to compete against top European sides, stating, “We are ready to play against top teams in Europe with our football, our mentality.” With their sights set on closing the gap to Bayern Munich, Leverkusen will aim to secure a crucial win against Kiel this weekend.

🗣️ Xabi's words to #KSVB04 in our press conference this morning. pic.twitter.com/arON678Z9D

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) February 21, 2025

Bayer Leverkusen has enjoyed a strong season, qualifying for the German Cup semi-finals and the Champions League Round of 16. Coach Xabi Alonso emphasized the importance of consistency, saying, “We showed we can do it (against Bayern) but we have to keep doing it against any opponent. Tomorrow again, with good energy, with good football. This is what we want.”

Alonso refrained from speculating on Leverkusen's title chances following the draw against Bayern Munich, instead choosing to focus on his team's performance. “There are still 12 games. We are focused on us. If they (Bayern) lose we will be ready. But we are not looking too far ahead. That's not a good thing to do in football these days,” he said.