Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Martinez has publicly challenged his squad’s mentality following a recent slump in form, urging the team to “clear their heads” after reports of concerning attitudes emerged from the training ground. According to *Kicker*, the body language displayed by several professionals does not reflect the “defiant response” typically expected from a title-chasing side facing adversity. The report highlights specific instances of passive behavior that have raised eyebrows among coaching staff and fans, suggesting a potential disconnect between the club’s high standards and current player engagement.
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Specific criticism has landed on Aleix García and Malik Tillman, whose actions were scrutinized during and after a recent match against Marseille. García’s reaction to his error, which led to Marseille’s opening goal, was described as one of regret rather than immediate, aggressive pressing to recover possession. Meanwhile, Tillman’s conduct at half-time drew particular attention; while five other substitutes actively passed the ball to maintain sharpness, the American midfielder was observed standing on the sideline juggling the ball five or six times. He was later pictured resting his right foot on the ball to watch his teammates rather than engaging in a proper warm-up, a detail that has fueled speculation about a broader issue with collective intensity.
These incidents have intensified pressure on Martinez to restore the defensive resilience and competitive hunger that defined Leverkusen’s historic 2023-24 campaign. With the squad’s form dipping, the focus is shifting from tactical adjustments to psychological recalibration. Martinez’s call for the team to “clear their heads” signals an urgent need to address these attitude issues before they derail the season’s objectives. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the squad can shake off this perceived complacency and return to the dominant performance levels that established them as European contenders.
Source: Yahoo Sports
