Bundesliga: the African players at the heart of Leverkusen's success
Bayer Leverkusen are having a memorable season, and 5 African players are central to it.
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Victor Boniface: a shrewd signing
Despite three months out injured, Victor Boniface has contributed hugely to Bayer Leverkusen's extraordinary campaign. Signed last summer from Union Saît-Gilloise, the Nigerian striker quickly made his mark. He was involved in 24 of his team's goals (16 goals, 8 assists). The 22-year-old was also voted Rookie of the Month (the Bundesliga's player of the month award) 5 times in a row, all within his first 20 games. A considerable contribution. The return from injury of the Super Eagle is great news for the Germans.
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Amine Adli: the perfect stand-in
The Moroccan forward held the fort throughout Victor Boniface's absence. Often starting as the focal point of the attack, the Atlas Lion stood out with his hold-up play, combativeness and determination. He helped his team's build-up play, notably by dropping deep. Amine Adli has already made 31 appearances in all competitions, 16 of them starts. He has been involved in 16 goals (8 goals, 8 assists). "I've been able to adapt to the league, I know how to bring danger", he said recently on BeIN SPORTS.
Read more on the subject: West Ham: Victor Boniface targeted
Edmond Tapsoba: quiet strength
Together with Jonathan Tah, they form Leverkusen's back line. Edmond Tapsoba (34 games, 3 goals, one assist) shows remarkable calm and presence. Solid on his feet, the Burkinabé defender consistently keeps opponents from doing damage and plays out cleanly from the back. Xabi Alonso has not hesitated to use his technical quality, his reading of the game and his composure in building play. He is at the heart of the team's build-up. Short or long passes, the defender entertains the crowd. He also readily breaks the lines with driving runs with the ball at his feet. A modern defender who attracts the big clubs.
Odilon Kossounou: the outsider
The reigning African champion is also a key part of Xabi Alonso's set-up. Although he has not played as many games as his Burkinabé counterpart, Odilon Kossounou has, however, earned the particular attention of the Spanish coach. It is no coincidence that he has 19 starts in 24 games. The Ivorian defender, able to play centrally, on the flank or as a holding midfielder, offers several options, which makes him a real Swiss army knife. At 23, he remains a reliable asset for Leverkusen's project. He is under contract until June 2026 and is currently valued at 35 million euros on the website Transfermarket.
Read more on the subject: German Cup: Amine Adli decisive twice over
Nathan Tella: a livewire on the flank
His 6 goals and 3 assists in 28 appearances in all competitions, only 11 of them starts, speak for themselves. Very often introduced from the bench, Nathan Tella shows formidable efficiency. On the right wing, the Nigeria international leaves opponents dizzy with his pace and dribbling. A great piece of business by Bayer Leverkusen last summer.
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