
The 23-year-old Finland international has been sidelined for the past few months due to a blood flow disorder in his right ankle. Pohjanpalo will be on crutches in the coming weeks and after that our number 17 will start the active phase of his rehab.
"Joel has had a lot of bad luck with injuries recently. He has always demonstrated his strength up front and his qualities as a sub. We are convinced about his potential. Now he should get well in peace and then get stuck in with us again," said sporting director Jonas Boldt (pictured above with Johjanpalo at contract signing).
The 31-time Finland international has made 18 Bundesliga appearances and scored seven goals for Bayer 04 to date. "I'd like to thank the club for their confidence in me. As soon as I'm fit, I will repay that on the pitch with good performances," said Pohjanpalo.

Video game producer Electronic Arts (EA) has announced the nominees for the Men's and Women's Team of the Year (TOTY) for EA Sports FC 26. With Patrik Schick and Alejandro Grimaldo for the men and Vanessa Fudalla for the women, there are three Bayer 04 players included. Fans of the Black-and-Reds can vote for each top XI of 2025 from now until 18:59 CET on Monday 12 January.
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