Leverkusen manager praises Tella's exceptional ability

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Nathan Tella has been praised by Kasper Hjulmand after the Nigerian delivered a goal and an assist in Bayer Leverkusen’s emphatic 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

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The Super Eagles forward produced a standout performance at the BayArena, playing a decisive role as Leverkusen strengthened their push for a UEFA Champions League place.

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The result lifted the club to fourth position on 58 points, keeping them firmly in contention for qualification.

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Reflecting on the display, Hjulmand highlighted Tella’s importance to the team, pointing to his energy, movement and attacking contribution as key factors in the victory.

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“He gives us a lot of energy and quality overall – especially in depth,” he said according to Liga Insider.

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Tella’s performance marked a significant milestone in his return from injury, as he ended a 458-day wait for a goal.

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His last strike came in Leverkusen’s 2-0 UEFA Champions League win against Sparta Praha on January 29, 2025.

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Since then, the 26-year-old had struggled with recurring fitness issues, limiting him to 24 appearances and affecting his rhythm during the campaign.

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Against Leipzig, however, he rediscovered his sharpness, first setting up Patrik Schick for the opening goal before doubling the lead himself with a well-timed run and composed finish before half-time.

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Leverkusen went on to complete a dominant 4-1 win, ending Leipzig’s five-game winning streak and strengthening their position in the race for a top-four finish with two matches remaining.

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Tella, who joined the Bundesliga side from Southampton, has now recorded one goal and three assists in seven league appearances since returning to action.

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Leverkusen’s next fixture will see them face Stuttgart in a decisive encounter, with both sides level on 58 points.

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The match is expected to play a significant role in determining the final Champions League qualification places, with Tella likely to remain central to his team’s attacking plans if his current form continues.

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