Bayer Leverkusen’s Amine Adli Finds Support After Personal Loss and Sporting Setbacks

In an interview with the German newspaper Bild, he looks back on these trials and the central role played by his coach, Xabi Alonso, in his ability to regain stability and confidence.

Adli experienced two successive ordeals: the loss of his mother and an early elimination with the Moroccan national team in the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations. These events have left their mark on the young player. However, he was able to count on the support of his club and his coach to overcome this difficult period. "I remember that after the Africa Cup, I came back and Alonso told me: ’Now you’re back here at your club, with your family, where you feel happy. We’re always here for you’," the Moroccan confided.

The key moment of this comeback was the quarter-final of the German Cup against Stuttgart. In this match, Adli scored a decisive goal. "It was my first goal after the death of my mother and the disappointment of the Africa Cup with Morocco. This goal was important to me at that time of my life, and also for the team at that moment of the match." This achievement, which contributed to a final 3-2 victory and qualification for the semi-finals, took on significant personal importance for the striker.

Xabi Alonso’s support was not limited to words. The Spanish coach showed particular recognition towards his player after this performance. "After my goal against Stuttgart, the coach came to see me and said: ’You deserve it and I’m happy for you.’ These words have remained etched in my mind."

Amine Adli has played 12 matches with Bayer Leverkusen this season. His return to the pitch has not been without difficulty. Last October, he suffered a leg fracture during a Champions League match against Brest, which kept him off the field for several months. This injury came on top of an already delicate context, but it did not dampen his determination to return to his best level.

Adli is under contract with Bayer Leverkusen until the summer of 2028 and has worn the jersey of the Atlas Lions 14 times, scoring one goal with the Moroccan national team. He should be part of Walid Regragui’s next squad, even though he faces stiff competition in his position.