Werder Bremen Faces Dilemma as Jens Stage Battles Fitness Woes Ahead of Hoffenheim Clash
Bremen, Germany – Werder Bremen’s hopes of continuing their impressive resurgence against TSG 1899 Hoffenheim on Sunday have been dealt a blow as star midfielder Jens Stage is doubtful due to a muscular issue.
Stage, who has been a revelation for Bremen since arriving from FC Copenhagen in the summer, was instrumental in the club’s remarkable 4-3 comeback victory over Hoffenheim in the reverse fixture earlier this season, scoring all three of his side’s goals.
However, the Danish international has been struggling with a muscular tightening in recent days, raising concerns over his availability for the crucial clash at the Weserstadion.
While Stage’s absence would be a major setback for Bremen, they will be boosted by the return of Romano Schmid, Leonardo Bittencourt, and Senne Lynen, who all missed training on Friday as a precautionary measure.
"It was just a precautionary measure," said Bremen coach Ole Werner. "All three will be fit for Hoffenheim."
However, Werder will be without captain Marco Friedl, who is still recovering from an inner ligament injury.
Stage’s Absence a Major Blow for Bremen
Stage has been one of Bremen’s standout performers this season, contributing not only with his goals but also with his tireless work rate and creative passing.
His absence would create a significant void in Bremen’s midfield, especially considering his recent goalscoring exploits.
In the reverse fixture against Hoffenheim, Stage demonstrated his clinical finishing and ability to make decisive runs into the box, expertly converting three chances to complete Bremen’s unlikely comeback.
Bremen’s Recent Form Gives Cause for Optimism
Despite the potential loss of Stage, Bremen will enter the game in confident mood.
Werner’s side has been in excellent form since the turn of the year, winning six of their last nine league games and moving up to eighth in the table.
They have also proven to be a formidable force at home, winning four of their last five matches at the Weserstadion.
Hoffenheim Looking to End Bremen’s Good Run
Hoffenheim, meanwhile, will be eager to end Bremen’s positive run and secure their first league victory in 2023.
The Kraichgauer have struggled for consistency this season, but they will be looking to draw inspiration from their impressive 4-1 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the DFB-Pokal last weekend.
Andre Breitenreiter’s team has several dangerous attacking players who can hurt Bremen, including Andrej Kramarić, Ihlas Bebou, and Georginio Rutter.
Head-to-Head Record Favors Bremen
Bremen hold the advantage in the head-to-head record against Hoffenheim, winning five of their 10 previous meetings in the Bundesliga.
However, Hoffenheim did win the most recent encounter between the two sides, claiming a 3-2 victory at the PreZero Arena in August 2022.
Conclusion
The absence of Jens Stage is a significant blow for Werder Bremen, but they will be confident of maintaining their positive form and securing a victory over Hoffenheim.
Hoffenheim, meanwhile, will be determined to end their poor run of results and claim three crucial points in their quest for a top-half finish.
The match at the Weserstadion promises to be a closely contested affair between two teams with plenty to play for.
