Hoffenheim vs Bayer Leverkusen prediction 17.01.2026 | Bundesliga

After a terrible last season in which they came close to the danger zone, finishing 15th, Hoffenheim bounced back this season in the best way possible. The team from Sinsheim is currently sitting in 5th place with 30 points in 16 rounds - an incredible 0.94 points per game improvement compared to last season. 

For the upcoming game against Bayer Leverkusen, three players who missed the previous games will remain sidelined - Koki Machida, Adam Hlozek, and Cole Campbell. However, Albian Hajdari served his one-game suspension and will return to the starting eleven. The 22-year-old central defender has been outstanding this season and is possibly one of their best players. So, his return should be a massive boost for the team. 

Unlike Hoffenheim, Bayer Leverkusen took a small step back this season, at least in the Bundesliga. However, considering they changed the coach and squad significantly, we aren't too surprised. Still, the Black and Reds are only two points away from fourth and third place, and reaching that is their primary objective. On the other hand, Bayer did well in the Champions League, advancing to the 1/16 Finals with relative ease despite facing amazing competition. 

After a massive 4:1 loss against Stuttgart in the previous game, coach Kasper Hjulmand spoke to the media. He said they cannot panic after a big loss and that they need to move forward. He analyzed that they have to be better, especially in the individual positioning and duels. 

For the upcoming game, the coach could have several important players out. Eliesse Ben Seghir is still with his NT at AFCON, while Christian Kofane and Ibrahim Maza will most likely rest after their appearance at AFCON. Additionally, Exequiel Palacios and Patrik Schick are out with injuries, along with Edmond Tapsoba, who returned from AFCON with a muscular injury and will miss at least two more weeks.