Bayer Leverkusen face another setback just three days before their first competitive match of the new season. Attacking player Eliesse Ben Seghir, 21, will be sidelined with a torn thigh muscle after suffering the injury in Saturday’s pre-season friendly against SF Baumberg (7:0). The Bundesliga side confirmed the diagnosis on Sunday morning following an MRI scan. No timeline has been given for the Moroccan international’s return.

What happened?

Ben Seghir picked up the injury in his first appearance under new manager Carles Martínez. The Spaniard knew the winger from his time coaching Toulouse, where Ben Seghir had played for AS Monaco in Ligue 1 before his move to Leverkusen. Martínez took charge in early July, aiming to reignite the young winger’s progress.

But the breakthrough looks further away than ever. Ben Seghir tore his ankle ligaments on the eve of the Africa Cup of Nations final in January. After returning, he managed just three brief Bundesliga appearances in the second half of last season. Now another layoff looms - and Bayer Leverkusen lose a key attacker with the club sitting sixth in the Bundesliga.

Why is this a blow for Bayer Leverkusen?

The club has bet on young talent like Ben Seghir to boost its attack. The 21-year-old was expected to play a bigger role this term, but recurring injuries have derailed his progress. His contract runs until 2028, yet doubts over his future are growing. Leverkusen paid around €32 million for him last summer - an investment now at risk.

Without Ben Seghir, the Werkself loses a player who brings pace and dribbling. The setback comes just before their first competitive fixture against FSV Mainz 05 on 2027-02-20. Leverkusen must now reshuffle their attack before that clash.

What’s next?

Carles Martínez faces the task of reshaping the attack. A swift return for Ben Seghir isn’t guaranteed. The club has stayed tight-lipped, but fans will hope for a rapid recovery. Their next test comes against Mainz 05, who currently sit tenth in the table.

Bayer Leverkusen have yet to score or concede a goal this season. The Werkself must prove they can stay competitive even without Ben Seghir.