Martínez Sends Warning To Eliesse Ben Seghir After Another Injury Setback

Bayer Leverkusen head coach Carles Martínez has urged Eliesse Ben Seghir to take greater responsibility for managing his fitness after the attacking midfielder suffered another muscle injury.

The 21-year-old missed Saturday's dramatic 4-3 victory over Mainz, adding to Die Werkself's injury concerns during an already demanding period of the season.

Although sporting director Simon Rolfes expects a relatively short absence, Martínez made it clear that the recurring nature of Ben Seghir's physical problems is becoming a concern.

The comments suggest that Leverkusen are not simply concerned about the latest injury, but also about preventing similar setbacks in the future.

Rolfes Offers Reassurance Over Injury

Despite the frustration surrounding Ben Seghir's absence, Rolfes believes the latest problem is not serious.

Leverkusen has yet to establish an exact recovery timeline, with the medical department continuing to assess the extent of the muscle problem.

Martínez confirmed that the club is working to determine how long the Moroccan international will be unavailable.

The uncertainty leaves Ben Seghir's participation in upcoming fixtures unresolved, although Rolfes' assessment suggests there is no immediate expectation of a lengthy absence.

Martínez Wants Better Physical Management

The most revealing aspect of Martínez's comments was his emphasis on Ben Seghir's responsibility for looking after his body.

Rather than focusing exclusively on medical treatment, Die Werkself coach highlighted the importance of managing physical demands more effectively.

That does not necessarily mean the player caused the injury. However, Martínez clearly believes there are adjustments Ben Seghir can make to reduce the risk of further setbacks.

For a young attacker trying to establish himself in Leverkusen's squad, repeated interruptions can be particularly damaging.

Every spell on the sidelines limits opportunities to develop consistency, build match fitness, and strengthen his understanding with teammates.

Martínez acknowledged the player's determination to contribute but stressed that availability remains essential.

Another Absence During Bayer's Busy October

Ben Seghir's setback comes as Leverkusen prepares for a congested schedule across the Bundesliga, European competition, and DFB Pokal.

Christian Kofane is already unavailable for several weeks after suffering a thigh injury on international duty, while Ibrahim Maza only recently recovered from an ankle problem.

Although the team scored four goals against Mainz, Martínez will need as many attacking options as possible during the coming weeks.

Ben Seghir's technical qualities and versatility could offer valuable alternatives, but his immediate priority is returning to full fitness without another interruption.

Rolfes remains optimistic that the absence will be brief.

The more important question for Leverkusen is whether the club and player can find a lasting solution to the recurring problems.

From here the stage only gets bigger.