Patrik Schick steps up as Bayer Leverkusen prepare for Bayern Munich test

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Alonso said, "He's on the right track, but it's too early to say when he'll be back."

Boniface has missed the last three matches due to a thigh injury, leaving a void in Leverkusen's attack.

Fortunately, Patrik Schick has risen to the challenge. The Czech striker has been in scintillating form, scoring six goals in his last four outings, including the decisive strike in Leverkusen's recent 2-1 victory over Union Berlin.

"He doesn't just score goals," Alonso said. "He's been doing many things very well, including performing strongly in a tough, intense match against Union." The Spanish coach praised Schick for bringing a "good feeling" to the pitch in Boniface's absence.

Leverkusen face a stern challenge on Tuesday as they travel to the Allianz Arena to take on Bayern Munich in the DFB-Pokal round of 16.

The Bavarians, unbeaten in their last five home games against Leverkusen, are looking to maintain their dominance. However, Bayern will be without star striker Harry Kane, who suffered a torn muscle in their 1-1 draw with Borussia Dortmund.

Bayern manager Vincent Kompany acknowledged Kane's absence would be significant, saying, "Harry has scored 20 goals. You can't replace that one-to-one. But we have players like Jamal [Musiala] who can step up. We'll find a solution." Kompany also highlighted Leverkusen's tactical flexibility and high pressing as major threats.

"They are very compact and aggressive. We must play to our strengths," he added.

Leverkusen, buoyed by three consecutive victories, are no strangers to upsetting Bayern. Alonso's side notably defeated the Bavarians 3-0 in February, despite lacking a traditional number nine. With Schick in form, they will aim to repeat that feat.

Both teams will contend with key absences. Bayern are missing Kane, Hiroki Ito, Joao Palhinha, Aleksandar Pavlovic, and Josip Stanisic, while Serge Gnabry remains a doubt. Leverkusen will be without Boniface, Amine Adli, and Jonas Hofmann.

As the clash looms, both sides look to their tactical adaptability and form players to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the prestigious cup.

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