Kennet Eichhorn Wants To Return In 2026 But Leverkusen Have Other Plans

Bayer Leverkusen are preparing for an extended absence from Kennet Eichhorn, with the 17-year-old midfielder continuing his recovery from a metabolic disorder that disrupted his summer preparations.

According to Kicker, the youngster has made encouraging progress in recent weeks and has gradually resumed physical training after his treatment successfully stabilised his metabolism.

However, the Bundesliga club are not expecting Eichhorn to return to competitive action before the end of 2026, despite the player's personal ambition to make his comeback sooner.

Eichhorn Makes Important Progress In Recovery

The latest developments represent a positive step for Eichhorn after a difficult period away from football.

His treatment reportedly began producing results several weeks ago, allowing him to resume a carefully managed training programme.

Nevertheless, the physical consequences of his illness remain significant.

According to Kicker, Eichhorn lost considerable physical conditioning during the summer, leaving him with substantial ground to recover in terms of muscle strength and endurance.

Those deficits cannot be addressed overnight, particularly after such a prolonged interruption.

For Die Werkself, the priority is ensuring that the midfielder rebuilds his fitness properly rather than rushing him back into competitive football.

Leverkusen Refuse To Rush Their Young Talent

Eichhorn is hoping to return to team training during the autumn and has reportedly set himself the ambitious target of making his competitive debut before the end of the year.

Leverkusen, however, are taking a more cautious approach.

The club neither expects nor demands a return in 2026, with the player's long-term health taking precedence over any sporting considerations.

That stance is consistent with sporting director Simon Rolfes' comments when Eichhorn's condition was first announced in August.

Rolfes emphasised that the midfielder had a potentially long career ahead of him and needed the necessary time and support to recover without pressure.

A Major Summer Signing Still Waiting For His Debut

Eichhorn joined Leverkusen from Hertha BSC during the summer in a deal reportedly worth around €9 million.

Widely regarded as one of Germany's most promising midfield talents, he had already made 17 appearances in the 2. Bundesliga last season and became the youngest goalscorer in the competition's history.

His performances attracted interest from several major European clubs before Bayer secured his signature.

However, the teenager has yet to make his competitive debut for the Werkself after being diagnosed with a metabolic disorder in August.

The latest update provides genuine encouragement, even if his return remains some distance away.

For Eichhorn, the ambition is to play again before Christmas. For Leverkusen, the priority is ensuring that whenever he returns, he is fully ready.

From here the stage only gets bigger.