Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed that one of Europe’s brightest young prospects has been ruled out indefinitely after being diagnosed with a metabolic disorder, dealing an early setback to the teenager’s first weeks at the Bundesliga club.
The German outfit announced the news in a statement on X, writing: “Bayer 04 will have to do without our number 18 for the time being. Our number 18 has been diagnosed with a metabolic disorder that requires treatment. Get well soon, Kenny!”
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No timeframe has been given for his return, with the club instead placing the focus firmly on his recovery.
The player in question is Kennet Eichhorn, who completed a move to Bayer Leverkusen earlier this summer despite attracting serious interest from Liverpool during the transfer window.
The Reds were among a host of clubs monitoring the highly-rated midfielder before Leverkusen ultimately won the race for his signature.
According to WELT, Eichhorn’s condition was identified following specialist medical examinations after he suffered a significant weight loss in the aftermath of a gastrointestinal illness.
A metabolic disorder affects the body’s ability to process and convert nutrients into energy efficiently, with treatment varying depending on the underlying cause.
The 17-year-old will now begin specialist care before any return to football is considered.
The report from WELT goes on to state that Bayer Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes has stressed that the club’s priority is ensuring the youngster receives the best possible treatment, insisting there will be no pressure placed on him as he begins his recovery.
The news comes just weeks after Eichhorn arrived at the BayArena following an impressive breakthrough campaign with Hertha Berlin.
His performances had caught the attention of several of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Liverpool heavily linked before the Bundesliga side moved decisively to secure one of Germany’s standout teenage talents.
Bayer 04 will have to do without Kennet Eichhorn for the time being. Our number 18 has been diagnosed with a metabolic disorder that requires treatment.
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) August 1, 2026