HSV setback: key player likely to miss Leverkusen clash! | OneFootball

The start of the new football year is quite challenging for HSV. Just three days after the defeat in Freiburg, the home game against Bayer Leverkusen is scheduled.

Coach Merlin Polzin is therefore forced to manage the workload of some key players. A clear trend is already emerging: Midfield engine Sambi Lokonga is likely to miss the game against Leverkusen, according to Hamburger Abendblatt.

The Belgian midfielder, currently the top scorer with four goals, has repeatedly struggled with muscular problems in his thigh over the past years. To avoid any risk, Lokonga is to be rested. HSV has already applied this measure in similar busy weeks during the first half of the season.

However, his absence leaves a significant gap in the central midfield. Lokonga is one of the most dominant players in the squad and possesses a passing accuracy that is unmatched by most in the team.

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HSV facing midfield restructuring

Polzin is thus faced with a tricky tactical decision to replace Lokonga. A plausible option would be to place Fabio Vieira in the center alongside Nicolai Remberg. However, this would create a new gap on the right wing, as there is currently a lack of clear alternatives. Rayan Philippe returns to the squad after illness but is probably not yet an option for the starting lineup.

Bakery Jatta, recently mainly used as a right wing-back, could therefore move forward and take on a more offensive role. Another possibility would be to move Ransford Königsdörffer from the center forward position to the right wing.

Additionally, another absence is looming: Jean-Luc Dompé is also doubtful due to ongoing Achilles tendon problems. If the Frenchman also has to sit out, HSV would be missing two key players. As an alternative on the wing, Alexander Rössing-Lelesiit could be considered. Fabio Balde, who missed the Freiburg match due to illness, is also expected to be part of the squad again.

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