Leverkusen host Frankfurt tonight in a battle of two sides who have lost an abundance of key players since January. However, since the turn of the year ,the two have gone in drastically different directions, with Frankfurt flying high towards the top of the table whilst Leverkusen sit winless in 12th, having already hit the reset button. The hosts shocked the footballing world by sacking an established manager like Erik ten Hag after just two Bundesliga matches, but Sporting director, Simon Rolfes doubled down on the clubs decision to part ways with the Dutchman, stating that “the past few weeks have shown that building a new and successful team with this set‑up is not feasible.”
As a result, all eyes will be on the former Denmark boss, Kasper Hjulmand, as he takes charge of his first Bundesliga game since 2015 when he led Mainz 05 to a mid-table finish. The Dane will be expecting his newly constructed Leverkusen side to achieve greater success than that, but is remaining measured, ensuring that” You don’t push a button. You have to work every day… and make it work.” Fans can expect a more pragmatic approach from Hjumland as he looks to re-establish himself in club football.
On the other hand, Frankfurt have hit the ground running this season, signaling intent with a convincing 4-1 win against Werder Bremen, in which Can Uzun stole the show by scoring the opener and setting up two goals for Jean‑Mattéo Bahoya. Uzun is expected to have a breakout season following the departures of Omar Marmoush and Hugo Ekitiké and the Turkish international featured prominently again in a 3‑1 away victory at Hoffenheim. Doan has also been in fine form, contributing with goals and assists and helping stretch opposition defenses. His link‑up play has added a new dimension to Frankfurt’s attacking threats. Bahoya, meanwhile, has shown maturity beyond his years: sharp in movement, clinical when chances arise, and already weighing in with several key goals. With those young attackers performing well, Frankfurt look confident, dangerous, and well‑balanced as they approach tonight’s match against Leverkusen.
Leverkusen can take some confidence from their recent form against Frankfurt, having won their last five meetings as well as having home advantage, but the form table points towards Frankfurt extending their winning start to the season.
Written by: Tyreid Savage.
Sports Talk Online 
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