Werder Bremen Bolstered by Return of Bittencourt and Schmid for Hoffenheim Clash
Bremen, Germany – Werder Bremen have received a timely boost ahead of their crucial Bundesliga clash against TSG Hoffenheim on Sunday, with the potential return of injured duo Leonardo Bittencourt and Romano Schmid.
"Leo and Romano are back in training today and are expected to be available on Sunday," Werder’s director of professional football, Peter Niemeyer, told Bild.
The two midfielders missed last Friday’s 3-0 defeat to Bayern Munich, with Bittencourt nursing a thigh injury and Schmid struggling with muscular issues.
Niemeyer expressed optimism that the other players who have been battling injuries, Justin Njinmah, Jens Stage, and Julian Malatini, could also feature.
However, there was less positive news on striker Keke Topp, who suffered a torn syndesmosis ligament.
"Keke is partially participating in training and taking the next step in his recovery," Niemeyer said. "He is on schedule and could potentially be back in full training by the end of February or early March."
The return of Bittencourt and Schmid is a significant boost for Werder Bremen, who have struggled for consistency this season and currently sit in 15th place in the Bundesliga table.
Bittencourt, a versatile midfielder known for his dribbling skills and attacking prowess, has been a key player for Werder Bremen since joining the club in 2020. Schmid, a Swiss international, has also impressed with his creative ability and eye for goal.
Their presence will provide a much-needed lift to Werder Bremen’s midfield, which has often lacked creativity and penetration this season.
Hoffenheim, meanwhile, have been in impressive form recently, winning their last three league matches and moving up to 10th place in the table.
They will pose a significant challenge for Werder Bremen, who will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
The match between Werder Bremen and Hoffenheim will take place on Sunday at 15:30 CET and will be broadcast live on DAZN.
