RB Leipzig relies on a new salary system: return to the Champions League?

RB Leipzig relies on a new salary system: return to the Champions League?

SSV RB Leipzig is preparing intensively for the coming season. A one-week training camp is currently taking place in the luxurious “Öschberghof” in Donaueschingen. The five-star hotel, which has hosted well-known guests such as Liverpool FC and the Spanish national team during the home European Championships in 2024, was booked exclusively for the team. Room prices start at 440 euros per night, which underlines the club's commitment to quality preparation.

After a weak season in which RB Leipzig missed out on European business for the first time, sports boss Marcel Schäfer is planning far-reaching changes to the club's salary structure. An upper limit of a maximum of five million euros in basic salary for new players will be introduced. However, these salaries could increase significantly in the next few years through performance bonuses, possibly doubling if Champions League qualification is achieved. However, the new regulation stipulates that salaries could fall by up to 30% if the team fails again to enter European competition. Sport Bild reports that this is part of a strategy to give young, promising players a chance, with the average age of the new arrivals being 19.6 years.

Focus on new structures

The club's realignment goes beyond the salary structure. In order to prevent potential groups forming in the cabin, discussions and so-called “character screening” were increased. The club also wants to focus its scouting more on live scouting again. Max Englert, who previously worked at FC Bayern, was hired as the new “Head of Live Scouting” to bring a breath of fresh air into squad planning.

Internally there is a certain understatement regarding Champions League qualification. The determination of the season's target will take place after the transfer window, giving the club the opportunity to set realistic expectations. Last season, RB Leipzig suffered over 1,000 days lost due to injuries, which is why the focus in preparation is heavily on improving basic endurance.

New training methods and prevention measures

Coach Ole Werner therefore integrates 1000-meter runs into training to maximize the players' fitness. In addition, Julia Woellner was hired as a permanent yoga teacher to prevent injuries and promote the regeneration of the players. A total of 16 personal details in the sporting area were adjusted during the summer break, which indicates a committed rethink within the club.

RB Leipzig's ambitions are clear: they want to return to the Champions League, where the club has regularly been represented in the past. The changes that those responsible want to initiate are a significant step in this direction, and the coming months will be crucial in transforming the new philosophy into successes.

For interested readers, the platform Capology has published some detailed salary estimates for RB Leipzig's players, which, despite their valued nature, provide a better picture of the club's financial situation.