Bayer Leverkusen are in the best form of their season, yet a simmering squad crisis threatens to overshadow their momentum. Five consecutive wins across the Bundesliga and Europa League have cemented the Werkself as one of the competition's most consistent sides, with the latest result a 2-0 victory away at OFI Crete on matchday three of the Europa League. Jonas Hofmann, drafted into the squad as a late replacement for injured Martin Terrier, scored twice inside three minutes in that win, underlining exactly why coach Carles Martinez made the call that so enraged Victor Boniface.

Boniface is at the heart of Leverkusen's most pressing internal problem. The Nigerian striker has managed just five minutes of football this season and, according to Sky, has told his representatives he wants to leave on loan in January. His frustration boiled over publicly when he left the pitch early during the 4-3 win at Mainz, a moment that drew a public rebuke from Martinez. Sporting director Simon Rolfes defended the player's general conduct but the situation looks difficult to resolve.

Off the pitch, a separate concern is building around Ibrahim Maza. The 20-year-old has six goal contributions in eight appearances this season and reports from Algeria suggest PSG want him at any cost, with Barcelona, Arsenal and Atletico Madrid also monitoring him. Leverkusen are working on a contract extension, though his current deal runs until 2030. The club travels to Hoffenheim on 25 October sitting fourth in the Bundesliga, level on 13 points with Freiburg above them.