RB Leipzig: Sports director Schäfer discovers talent at the U21 European Championship semi-finals!

RB Leipzig: Sports director Schäfer discovers talent at the U21 European Championship semi-finals!

Marcel Schäfer, the sports director of RB Leipzig, was currently in Košice to watch talented players in the U21 European Championship semi-final between Germany and France. This game, which Germany won 3-0, represents an opportunity for Schäfer to evaluate potential new additions for the coming season. He has shown a particular interest in several players who could complement the club's profile.

Among the talents being watched is Max Rosenfelder (22) from Freiburg, a German central defender who, despite his market value of 8 million euros and a top speed of 35.91 km/h, was injured after just 11 minutes in the game. Another player of interest is Ismaël Doukouré (21) from Strasbourg, who can be used flexibly in both central defense and defensive midfield. His contract runs until 2026, and Schäfer tried to bring him to Wolfsburg a year ago.

Risk management and new strategies

RB Leipzig is faced with important decisions after a disappointing season. While Schäfer appears calm, it is clear that a new coach needs to be found to initiate a change in the team. He announced that a new coach would be on the pitch at the start of training. The entire month of June will be used to advance the search for trainers.

With regard to team planning and possible departures, Schäfer has already started making new signings. Among the names traded are Cesc Fabregas, Oliver Glasner and Roger Schmidt. Schäfer emphasizes the desire for a “start into a new era”, with the new team playing offensive and attractive football. There are also concerns that key players such as Xavi Simons and Benjamin Sesko could leave the club. However, Schaefer makes it clear that there are no player cancellations for next season.

Additional talents in focus

Other players being watched include Kiliann Sildillia (23) from Freiburg, who is under contract as a right-back until 2026, and Nelson Weiper (20) from Mainz, a goal-scoring striker whose contract also runs until 2026. Due to possible departures in the attack, RB Leipzig needs to take action, especially with regard to Benjamin Sesko, Lois Openda and Yussuf Poulsen.

Lastly, Rocco Reitz (23) from Gladbach is a versatile midfielder whose contract runs until 2028 and an exit clause of 20 million euros only applies from next summer.

Marcel Schäfer and the RB Leipzig team are working intensively to put together a powerful team for the coming season, with the aim of playing not only success-oriented football, but also identity-building football that inspires the supporters.

For more information, read the detailed reports Picture and Sports show.