Overview

• Coach Dino Toppmöller said Götze has muscular issues in his thigh and warned a quick return is unlikely.
• Mario Götze missed the 3:1 win at Hoffenheim a week after his comeback from about four months out with a right‑thigh injury.
• Sporting director Markus Krösche said the club will monitor his condition and voiced hope the setback is not severe.
• Jonathan Burkardt sat out Hoffenheim as a precaution due to back discomfort and is expected to be available at Leverkusen.
• Toppmöller framed recent selections as protective load management before upcoming English weeks to reduce re‑injury risk.