Naby Keita denied rumors on social media that he left Werder Bremen’s starting lineup and returned home.
After spending six years at Premier League powerhouse Liverpool, the midfield player joined the team as a free agent last summer, although he has only played 106 minutes because of injuries.
After not being included in the squad, Keita’s future with the Bundesliga team was called into question prior to their trip to Bayer Leverkusen.
Director Clemens Fritz stated, “After learning yesterday that he wasn’t in the starting XI, Naby decided not to come with us to the ground, but instead chose to travel home,” according to the club’s English X account.
“We’ll be speaking to him and his adviser tomorrow about the consequences and where we go from here.”
In response, Keita posted a statement on his Instagram story, defending his professionalism and criticizing the person attempting to “tarnish” his reputation.
The French said, “I would like to speak out to clarify my situation with my club, Werder Bremen.” “I have consistently shown professionalism and selflessness ever since the day I signed with this incredible team.
“My sole motivation has always been to support the club and make the numerous supporters happy, especially now that the results aren’t what we want.
“I have always attempted to be an example and have never had a disciplinary issue since the beginning of my career, no matter where I have been. I will thus not put up with anyone damaging this reputation.
“To my supporters, please know that I strive to make you happy every weekend during every training session. Training and giving my all are the boundaries of my ability. I wish my teammates well in our upcoming battle. “Go, Werder!”
Leverkusen won the Bundesliga title for the first time ever as Werder Bremen lost the match 5-0.
Keita has missed 17 games in the German top division this season; injuries have been the main reason for his absences from the squad.
Mark Goldbridge selected players from Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool for his championship race combined XI.
Similar problems befell Keita at Liverpool, where he spent six seasons at Anfield starting just 77 games in all competitions.
Due to calls up to the Guinea national team for the Africa Cup of Nations, he missed four games with Werder Bremen.
However, in the two games that have passed since then, he has only been picked for the starting lineup once out of his five season appearances.
Keita even had to pull out of his summertime unofficial debut due to an injury he had during a preseason friendly’s warm-up.
