Predicted Bayer Leverkusen v Mainz XIs | OneFootball

Florian Wirtz is expected to return to Bayer Leverkusen’s starting line-up when they host Mainz at the BayArena on Tuesday evening. The 21-year-old was absent from the team that started in Bayer’s 3-2 win against Borussia Dortmund on Friday after he was caught in traffic, delaying him for a team meeting – although he did feature in the second half.

The same can be said for Exequiel Palacios, who was also delayed and therefore was absent from Leverkusen’s starting XI against Dortmund. But like Wirtz, the Argentine is expected to return in place of Robert Andrich, who should find a place on the bench.

Wirtz and Palacios returning to the squad should also see a return to a back three for Xabi Alonso’s side, which will be fronted by Patrik Schick, who scored a brace on Friday. January signing Alejo Sarco (19) should also be named in the matchday squad for the first time.

As for Mainz, they find themselves in fifth, just two points behind RB Leipzig, and are certainly seen as overachievers this season. Led by Jonathan Burkardt, the 24-year-old has scored 12 and created two in 15 league games for Bo Henriksen’s side this season.

In the event that Paul Nebel can’t start because of a bruised shin, summer arrival Hong Hyun-seok could make his first start since matchday five.

Bayer Leverkusen v Mainz Predicted Line-Ups

Bayer Leverkusen: Hradecky – Tapsoba, Tah, Hincapie – Frimpong, Xhaka, Palacios, Grimaldo – Wirtz – Tella, Schick

Mainz: Zentner – da Costa, Bell, Jenz – Caci, Sano, Kohr, Mwene – Hong, Lee – Burkardt

GGFN | Daniel Pinder