Another HSV setback? Key man could miss Leipzig clash | OneFootball

After the bitter 0–5 debacle against Mainz, HSV are now facing another setback ahead of their away match at RB Leipzig. Of all places, coach Merlin Polzin could be left without an important option in defense.

Sebastiaan Bornauw was absent from team training on Wednesday and is causing concern among those in charge. The Belgian has been struggling with persistent muscular problems following the heavy defeat against Mainz. Whether the 27-year-old will be able to play in Leipzig on Sunday (3:30 p.m.) is, according to Bild information, completely up in the air. His condition is said to be reassessed day by day. A decision on his involvement is therefore unlikely to be made until later in the week.

The loss of the center-back would definitely hit HSV hard. Although Bornauw failed to impress against Mainz and, like his teammates, had major problems, he is generally considered a key part and the defensive leader of the back three. On top of that, the already tense situation in central defense is becoming even more serious.

Photo: IMAGO

HSV must rely on their youngsters

Because: Warmed Omari only returned to team training at the start of the week after his shoulder injury. After being forced out for more than four weeks, a place in the starting lineup in Leipzig would still come too soon. Meanwhile, Mario Vuskovic will not be available for competitive matches again until mid-November due to his doping suspension.

So if Bornauw really is unable to play, Polzin will have only a few alternatives left. Alongside Jordan Torunarigha and Nicolas Capaldo, the club’s young homegrown players are likely to be called upon. That applies in particular to Shafiq Nandja, who was already brought on in the second half against Mainz. Even 18-year-old Jason Bissi-Mouelle could at least become an option for the squad. A possible new lineup was worked on in training.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.