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Manager Upset: Are These Young Players Jeopardizing Their Bundesliga Prospects?

Manager Upset: Are These Young Players Jeopardizing Their Bundesliga Prospects?

Toppmöller Expresses Frustration Over Player Performance

Recent Match Analysis

After the thrilling 4-3 win against FC Köln, a visibly frustrated Dino Toppmöller addressed the media, highlighting the need to discuss players who failed to seize their opportunity for more playing time.

Concerns Over Player Futures

The duo of Elye Wahi and Jean-Mattéo Bahoya from Eintracht has repeatedly shown disappointing performances. Are they risking their positions in the Bundesliga?


Wahi’s Deteriorating Situation

Wahi might face a serious career setback this winter. As reported by ‘Bild’, Toppmöller has lost faith in the 22-year-old forward. Additionally, sports director Markus Krösche indicated that Eintracht is expected to recruit at least one new striker during the winter transfer window, leaving little room for Wahi.


Wahi’s Performance Metrics

Since joining the club in January 2025, Wahi’s contributions have been underwhelming. For a hefty fee of 26 million, he has managed to score only one goal while accumulating two yellow cards. His market value has dropped dramatically from 25 million to 18 million euros according to ‘Transfermarkt.de’, which is concerning for a player of his age.

If Wahi does not improve significantly before the winter break, Eintracht stands to incur a substantial loss on his transfer, and a spot in a Champions League team may not be in his immediate future.

Bahoya’s Future at Eintracht

Contrastingly, the Champions League played a significant role in Jean-Mattéo Bahoya’s decision to remain with Eintracht during the summer. He expressed to ‘L’Équipe’, “I want to have a great season and compete in the Champions League.”

The 20-year-old, who transferred from Angers for eight million in January 2024, initially made a promising start to the season, including a double against Werder Bremen. However, his form has since dwindled. Across nine league matches, four Champions League games, and one cup match, he has only provided one assist. While Can Uzun, his peer, has secured a starting role, Bahoya has found himself relegated to the bench since matchday seven.

Premier League Interest

Reports from England have indicated Liverpool expressed interest in Bahoya as recently as October, with a potential winter transfer being considered. His exceptional speed and technical skills caught the attention of the Premier League team. However, following Toppmöller’s cautious remarks, a move across the English Channel appears unlikely at this juncture.

Nevertheless, Bahoya may have less to worry about regarding his long-term future at Eintracht compared to Wahi. The club is likely to give the 20-year-old—who is signed until 2029—at least until summer to redirect his career trajectory positively. This is encouraged by his strong start to the season and the club’s hopes for financial gain from his development, similar to the situation with Hugo Ekitiké.

Despite this, Bahoya must elevate his performances considerably to improve his standing with the team.