Bayer Leverkusen fans were initially concerned after Algerian midfielder Ibrahim Maza returned from international duty with a bandaged ankle following a rough challenge in a friendly against Niger. Initial medical checks in Germany have since confirmed the injury is only a minor bruise, with symptoms already improving. Manager Xabi Alonso (or his staff) will assess Maza's readiness for the Mainz match, intentionally avoiding painkillers to ensure the player maintains his full technical precision. Maza, valued at 50 million euros, has been a key starter for the team this season.