Tillman ends drought in league duel for Bayer Leverkusen

On Thursday evening Malik Tillman finally found a reason to smile at Bayer Leverkusen. In the Europa League tie against Lech Poznan he opened the scoring after more than half an hour, marking his first goal of the season.

Investment and expectations

Leverkusen paid 35 million euros last summer for the 24‑year‑old American, who had moved from PSV to Bayern Munich before coming to Germany. Despite that investment he has not yet fully convinced after his return to the Bundesliga.

Season start and playing minutes

For the 24‑year‑old attacking midfielder the season started slowly; he scored eight times in all competitions last season, but lost his starting place in the second half of the campaign. Coach Carles Martínez regularly put him on the bench, so he only received ninety minutes in the away tie against Lech Poznan.

Goal and reactions

The goal came after Patrik Schick had already opened the scoring with a penalty, after which Tillman made it 0‑2. Technical director Simon Rolfes praised him afterwards: “He was very present in the sixteen. It was a very good and energetic performance from Malik.” Tillman himself responded: “This is a step in the right direction. It is good for my confidence, which has been lacking a bit lately.”

Personal motivations

The American admitted that the gap between his national team and club occupied his mind: “I know I can do more. I know what I have shown in the United States. Now I have to show that here as well to the people.” He does not blame the coach for the choices, but emphasizes that he must prove himself.

Transfer rumours

Despite rumours of a winter transfer in the German media, Tillman remains focused on proving his worth at Bayer Leverkusen.