
Tue Nov 26 22:18:58 UTC 2024: ## Leverkusen Faces Injury Crisis Ahead of Crucial Champions League Clash
**Leverkusen, Germany** – Bayer Leverkusen faces a major injury crisis ahead of their crucial Champions League home match against RB Salzburg on Tuesday. Manager Xabi Alonso is grappling with a depleted squad, with six players currently sidelined.
The latest blow came on Sunday when French striker Martin Terrier fractured his right forearm in the minutes leading up to their 5-2 victory over Heidenheim. This adds to an already lengthy injury list that includes winger Jonas Hofmann (out for the season), striker Victor Boniface, winger Amine Adli, and centre-backs Nordi Mukiele and Jeanuel Belocian.
Alonso emphasized the importance of every remaining player, stating, “We need the whole squad, but with six injured players, everyone is even more important. It’s intense to play every three days.” He also acknowledged the team’s recent struggles, including a 1-1 draw with Brest and a disappointing 4-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League.
Despite Leverkusen’s 13th place in the Champions League standings and Salzburg’s lower ranking (30th), Alonso stressed the importance of the upcoming matches against Salzburg and Inter Milan. He warned against underestimating Salzburg, describing them as a “good opponent” who plays with “a lot of intensity and dynamism.” He appealed to the home crowd for support, stating, “We need the energy from the fans. In difficult moments they can influence and push us.”