Xabi Alonso worried about the start of next year

Bayer Leverkusen could be without five of their players who are likely to take part in the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in January. The head coach of the German club, Xabi Alonso, expressed concern that the first two months of 2024 will be quite difficult for the "aspirins", who are in the leading position in the Bundesliga with an asset of 28 points. "It's a big worry for January and February.

We could be without five of our players and that is a serious cause for concern. However, the reality is this and we have to accept it," said the Spanish specialist after Bayer Leverkusen's 1-0 win over Qarabag in the Europa League group stage on Thursday night. Alonso added that he was happy about the development of the players they could represent their nations at a major tournament in the near future.

Winger Nathan Tella received his first call-up to the Nigeria squad, where striker Victor Boniface plays regularly. Defenders Edmond Topsoba (Burkina Faso) and Odilon Kosono (Côte d'Ivoire) as well as winger Amin Adli (Morocco) are also big chances to feature in the next edition of the Africa Cup of Nations tournament starting on January 13. Bayer Leverkusen play at home to Union Berlin on Sunday.