Nathan Tella has made it crystal clear: he’s staying at Bayer Leverkusen. Despite swirling speculation about his future, the dynamic Nigerian winger has reiterated his unwavering loyalty to the Bundesliga giants. With five league matches remaining and a six-point gap to leaders Bayern Munich, Tella’s focus is firmly locked on helping Leverkusen retain their Bundesliga crown.
5 Bold Signs Nathan Tella Is Committed to Leverkusen’s Title Run
5. Tella Publicly Rejects Exit Rumors
In a recent interview with BILD, Tella directly addressed the rumors linking him with a move away from Leverkusen. With calm confidence, he dismissed the claims, stating, “A six-point gap isn’t much in football. It’s up to us.” That quote alone signals his competitive mindset and desire to stay and fight.
05 April 2025, Baden-Württemberg, Heidenheim: Soccer: Bundesliga, 1. FC Heidenheim – Bayer Leverkusen, Matchday 28, Voith-Arena. Leverkusen players Emiliano Buendia (l) and Nathan Tella celebrate the victory with the fans. Photo: Harry Langer/dpa – IMPORTANT NOTE: In accordance with the regulations of the DFL German Football League and the DFB German Football Association, it is prohibited to utilize or have utilized photographs taken in the stadium and/or of the match in the form of sequential images and/or video-like photo series. (Photo by Harry Langer/picture alliance via Getty Images)
Throughout the current campaign, Tella has shown flashes of brilliance, and this recent media interaction only underlines his leadership mentality.
4. His Focus Is on Silverware, Not Speculation
Unlike many players who get distracted by transfer chatter, Tella remains deeply focused on the title race. He knows that winning the Bundesliga again would elevate both his personal stock and the club’s reputation.
Nathan Tella understands what it takes to succeed at this level. His dedication to Leverkusen’s goals demonstrates a player who values trophies over transfer headlines.
HEIDENHEIM, GERMANY – APRIL 5: Nathan Tella of Bayer 04 Leverkusen plays the ball during the Bundesliga match between 1. FC Heidenheim 1846 and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Voith-Arena on April 5, 2025 in Heidenheim, Germany. (Photo by Marcel Engelbrecht – firo sportphoto/Getty Images)
3. He’s Become a Tactical Asset for Xabi Alonso
Since arriving from Southampton in August 2023 for around £20 million, Nathan Tella has carved out a role under the tactically sharp Xabi Alonso. His pace, pressing, and defensive contributions have made him a valuable utility attacker.
Despite only scoring twice in 22 league appearances, Tella’s impact goes beyond goals. His off-the-ball movement and work rate have been crucial in key matches this season.
2. Injury Setback Doesn’t Deter His Commitment
Tella’s recent injury—sustained during a clash with Union Berlin goalkeeper Frederik Rønnow—sparked concerns among fans and pundits. However, even with the setback, the winger remains engaged with team preparations and recovery.
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – APRIL 12: Goalkeeper Frederik Ronnow of Union Berlin challenges Nathan Tella of Leverkusen during the Bundesliga match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and 1. FC Union Berlin at BayArena on April 12, 2025 in Leverkusen, Germany. (Photo by Mika Volkmann/Getty Images)
Instead of sulking or slipping out of the media spotlight, Tella has continued to motivate his teammates from the sidelines. That’s a clear indication of his all-in attitude.
1. He’s Looking Ahead, Not Back
Nathan Tella isn’t one to dwell on the past. His journey from Arsenal’s academy to Southampton, and now to Bayer Leverkusen, reflects resilience and vision.
By reaffirming his commitment to Leverkusen, Tella signals that he sees the club as part of his long-term future. The Bundesliga provides him with a platform to grow, challenge for honors, and represent Nigeria with pride.
Nathan Tella’s Numbers: Modest but Meaningful
Nathan Tella’s 2024/25 season stats:
Appearances (Bundesliga): 22
Goals: 2
Assists: 3
Minutes Played: 1,100+
Key Passes per Game: 1.2
Dribble Success Rate: 66%
Though not gaudy, these numbers highlight a player who contributes to team dynamics beyond the stat sheet. Nathan Tella’s pressing and transitional play have been crucial in Leverkusen’s high-intensity system.
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – APRIL 12: Nathan Tella of Leverkusen runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and 1. FC Union Berlin at BayArena on April 12, 2025 in Leverkusen, Germany. (Photo by Mika Volkmann/Getty Images)
What’s Next for Nathan Tella and Bayer Leverkusen?
Leverkusen’s remaining fixtures include must-win matches, with a visit to St. Pauli next. While Bayern Munich remains favorites, Leverkusen will need every ounce of grit and quality from players like Nathan Tella to pull off a historic comeback.
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – APRIL 12: Nathan Tella of Leverkusen runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and 1. FC Union Berlin at BayArena on April 12, 2025 in Leverkusen, Germany. (Photo by Mika Volkmann/Getty Images)
If Nathan Tella returns from injury in time, his presence could be the difference-maker. The winger’s pace and pressing game are tailor-made for late-season drama, and his belief in the team is contagious.
Conclusion: Nathan Tella’s Message Is Clear
Nathan Tella has shut down the noise. With focus, pride, and ambition, he’s made his intentions known — no distractions, no departure, just determination.
As Leverkusen prepares for the final stretch of the Bundesliga campaign, fans can count on one thing: Nathan Tella is all in.