Bayer Leverkusen edged past Koln 2-1 in a Bundesliga clash on Saturday, with Super Eagles attacker Nathan Tella marking his 100th appearance for the club. The 26-year-old played a key role in the victory, providing the assist for Patrik Schick's second goal. Tella's contribution came after a difficult season marred by recurring injuries that sidelined him for extended periods. His return to form over the past three matches has been timely, following Leverkusen's decision to extend his contract until 2031, ending speculation about a potential summer departure.
Three seasons ago, Tella was instrumental in Leverkusen's unbeaten run to the Bundesliga title, a campaign that solidified his status at the BayArena. Last season, he recorded four goals and five assists across 39 appearances, but this term had threatened to derail his progress due to fitness setbacks. The assist against Koln underscored his resilience and re-established his influence in the team. Leverkusen now sit sixth in the league, just two points from a Champions League qualification spot.
Tella has yet to feature under Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, despite making his international debut in 2023. His limited playing time at club level previously hindered his national team prospects. With consistent performances now under his belt, a return to Nigeria's World Cup qualifier squad in June appears increasingly possible.
Nathan Tella reaching 100 appearances for Leverkusen is notable, but it comes after a season where injuries nearly derailed his standing at the club. The contract extension through 2031 now looks like a bet on his past impact rather than current form, despite the recent uptick. For the Super Eagles, Tella's resurgence offers a timely chance to re-enter the conversation under Eric Chelle. If he sustains this level, June's qualifiers could mark his long-overdue return to international action.
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