Plummeting attacking output and stalled contract negotiations leave the German international at a crossroads, forcing the captain to rediscover his rhythm before his future in Leipzig fades.
David Raum is supposed to be one of the defining figures of RB Leipzig's current team. Instead, the club's captain is finding himself at the centre of two questions that are becoming increasingly difficult to separate: when will his best form return, and what does the future hold?
The 28-year-old has endured a difficult start to the season, with his performances yet to match the influence Leipzig have come to expect from their left-back.
That was again evident in the 2-0 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen.
Raum was involved in a tense exchange with DAZN after the match when asked about Leipzig's struggles away from home. His response suggested that he did not share the same assessment of the team's recent performances.
For a captain, defending his teammates and maintaining confidence is understandable. But according to BILD, the bigger issue for the Red Bulls is what Raum is producing on the pitch.
Last season, his attacking contribution was significant. Raum finished the Bundesliga campaign with three goals and seven assists from 30 appearances, while his deliveries from the left and set pieces regularly provided Leipzig with an important source of chances.
That production has disappeared so far this season.
Through the opening weeks of the campaign, Raum has yet to register a goal or assist. For a player whose attacking qualities are such an important part of his game, that is a noticeable drop.
It also comes at an interesting moment in his Leipzig career.
Raum's current contract runs until the end of the 2026/27 season, meaning the club must eventually decide whether to extend the relationship or prepare for the possibility of losing their captain on a free transfer.
That creates an uncomfortable situation.
Die Roten Bullen have already experienced what happens when important players reach the final year of their contracts without an agreement. Konrad Laimer and Xaver Schlager are two recent examples of players whose contracts ultimately expired before they moved elsewhere.
Raum is a different case because of his status within the squad. He is not simply another player approaching the end of his deal. He is the captain, a Germany international and one of Leipzig's most recognisable figures.
That makes his current form particularly relevant.
The club needs Raum to rediscover the player who can influence matches from the left. At the same time, Leipzig must work out whether that player will remain part of their plans beyond this season.
For now, both questions remain unanswered.
