Bayer Leverkusen’s Patrik Schick May Return for Crucial Champions League Clash Against Inter Milan
LEVERKUSEN, Germany, Dec 9 (Reuters) – Bayer Leverkusen is optimistic about the potential return of key striker Patrik Schick for their high-stakes Champions League match against Inter Milan on Tuesday. Coach Xabi Alonso revealed on Monday that the Czech forward, who missed Saturday’s 2-1 Bundesliga victory over St Pauli due to injury, is making progress in his recovery.
Injury Concerns for Leverkusen
Schick, who has been in fine form recently, is a vital player for Leverkusen, especially as they are already without their top scorer Victor Boniface due to injury. The 27-year-old Schick has netted 5 goals in his last 7 appearances, underscoring his importance to the squad.
“Patrik is getting closer, and tomorrow morning we are training again,” said Alonso during a press conference. “We have to assess the situation day by day, but he is feeling better, and we are not ruling him out.”
Tough Opponent in Inter Milan
Leverkusen faces a formidable challenge in Inter Milan, who have been defensively impeccable in the Champions League this season. Inter is the only team yet to concede a goal in the competition, having scored 7 goals across 5 matches, with a record of four wins and one draw.
“They are very strong, a very solid squad with a clear idea of what they want. They play with a lot of maturity,” Alonso said of Inter.
Inter, who sit second in Group D with 13 points, are just behind group leaders Real Madrid. Leverkusen, currently in sixth place with 10 points, needs a strong performance to secure automatic qualification for the last 16.
Leverkusen’s Home Advantage
Despite the challenges, Leverkusen is motivated by the opportunity to make history as the first team to score against Inter in this year’s competition. The match at the BayArena provides a chance for the German side to test their mettle against one of Europe’s most consistent teams.
“We are facing one of the best teams in Europe. But for us, it’s a chance to see where we are, and we play at home,” Alonso added. “Our goal is to qualify for the first eight and to do our best in each competition.”
Leverkusen’s Form
Leverkusen comes into the game in strong domestic form, sitting third in the Bundesliga with 32 points from 15 games, just five points behind leaders Bayern Munich. The team has scored an impressive 39 goals in the league this season, with their attacking prowess being a key strength.
The Challenge Ahead
With Inter’s defensive solidity and Leverkusen’s attacking intent, the match promises to be a tactical battle. While Inter has shown their ability to control games with precision, Leverkusen will be looking to leverage their home crowd and regain their scoring momentum, particularly if Schick returns to the lineup.
The game is set to kick off at 8:00 PM CET at the BayArena in Leverkusen. All eyes will be on Schick’s fitness update and whether Leverkusen can overcome the Italian defensive wall to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
