Bayer Leverkusen has been hit with a bitter blow ahead of the round of 16 second leg in the Europa League against Ferencvaros Budapest. Striker Patrik Schick and winger Karim Bellarabi are both out of the squad. Simon Rolfes, the sports boss of the team, confirmed that Bellarabi is ill, while Schick is still struggling with groin injuries, which have plagued him throughout the season. Schick has been absent for almost four months due to the injury, and since his return in February, he has only made six substitute appearances in the Bundesliga and Europa League.
Rolfes explained that Schick is still experiencing pain in the groin area, which prevented him from travelling to Budapest for the crucial match. The Czech striker is also doubtful for the upcoming match against Bayern Munich. Despite the setback, Rolfes is hopeful that Schick’s injury will be under control in due course, as surgery is not an option.
Meanwhile, there is a positive note for Leverkusen, as Florian Wirtz is back in training and could feature against Ferencvaros. The 19-year-old midfielder missed the game against Werder Bremen due to muscle problems. However, Leverkusen will miss the experience and firepower of Schick and Bellarabi as they look to progress to the quarterfinals of the Europa League.
