Salim Musah (20) positions himself for role in Werder Bremen attack | OneFootball

Werder Bremen striker Salim Musah continues to strengthen his case for a starting position ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign. The 20-year-old registered a goal and an assist during Werder’s 4–2 friendly victory over Energie Cottbus. Musah opened the scoring before supplying Samuel Mbangula with a through ball for Bremen’s second goal.

The performance followed another goal in the recent 2–0 win over Bochum. Musah has operated with energy and presence in the central attacking position throughout preseason, having undertaken additional individual training during the summer break.

“Salim has made his presence felt on multiple occasions,” Werder head coach Daniel Thioune said after the Cottbus victory.

Musah already generated considerable excitement after scoring his first Bundesliga goal against RB Leipzig last April. The academy forward subsequently moved into the starting XI for the final two league fixtures of the season.

He had also been considered for his first Bundesliga start against Köln earlier in the relegation battle as Thioune searched for a dependable natural centre-forward.

Salim Musah with an advantage in race for starting position?

Musah’s strong preseason gives him an early advantage over summer signing Cedric Itten. The Swiss international received additional leave following his World Cup involvement and will not join full team training until Tuesday.

Werder could add further competition before the transfer window closes. Lechia Gdańsk forward Tomas Bobček has reportedly attracted interest after scoring 20 goals in Poland last season.

The relegated Polish club are nevertheless demanding a mid-to-high single-digit million fee. Werder may need to generate income through player sales before submitting a concrete offer, while a loan signing remains another possibility.

For now, Musah has placed himself at the front of an increasingly crowded competition to lead Bremen’s attack.

GGFN | Peter Weis