Oct 23, 2026 8:41 PM
Updated Oct 23, 2026 9:52 PM
Fresh from conceding ten goals in a brutal week, Martín Demichelis will rotate his squad to combat fatigue and neutralize Elversberg’s high-intensity threat on Saturday.
RB Leipzig coach Martín Demichelis has confirmed that changes are coming to his starting lineup ahead of Saturday's Bundesliga clash against Elversberg.
After suffering heavy defeats against Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, Leipzig desperately needs a response. However, Demichelis insists his rotation plans are not simply a reaction to those results.
Instead, the Argentine wants to manage his players' fitness carefully while preparing for an opponent he believes could cause Leipzig serious problems.
Speaking ahead of the match, Demichelis also provided an encouraging update on Christoph Baumgartner, although the Austrian midfielder is not yet ready to return to the starting eleven.
Demichelis Confirms Changes To His Starting Eleven
The Red Bulls have endured a difficult week, conceding ten goals across their last two matches.
A humiliating 6-1 defeat against Bayern Munich was followed by a 4-1 Champions League loss to Real Madrid, increasing the pressure on Demichelis to deliver a convincing performance.
With three demanding fixtures in quick succession, the coach believes fresh legs will be essential against Elversberg.
"We have a deep squad, and we'll rotate to make sure we have fresh legs and are ready to go from the first blow of the whistle. We obviously won't make 11 changes, but we're managing the players' workload and recovery carefully to put our strongest possible team out for such an intense game."
The comments suggest several players could receive opportunities after Leipzig's physically demanding encounters in Munich and Madrid.
However, Demichelis made clear that he is not planning a complete overhaul, instead looking for the right balance between continuity and freshness.
Elversberg's Intensity Has Leipzig On Alert
Despite Leipzig's status as favourites, Demichelis warned against underestimating Saturday's opponents.
Elversberg have already demonstrated their ability to compete against established Bundesliga sides, and their aggressive approach could make them particularly dangerous early in the match.
"They're a very intense side, one that's difficult to play against. They've already beaten some good teams, and they play with tremendous intensity, particularly in the first 15 to 20 minutes."
Those opening stages could prove decisive for Leipzig, who have struggled defensively in recent matches.
Against Bayern and Madrid, lapses in concentration and defensive organisation allowed opponents to take control.
Demichelis will therefore want his players to match Elversberg's energy immediately rather than allowing another difficult start.
Baumgartner's Return Offers Hope But Patience Is Required
One positive development for Leipzig is the return of Christoph Baumgartner.
The Austrian midfielder made his comeback against Real Madrid after 158 days out, providing the assist for Tidiam Gomis' consolation goal.
Demichelis was delighted to welcome him back but stressed that rushing his recovery would be unnecessary.
"It's great news that Baumgartner's back on the pitch after such a long time out. We need characters like him in our squad. Playing him from the start would still be a risk, though. He's feeling good, but we still need to be patient."
The coach confirmed that Baumgartner is expected to receive minutes during the second half against Elversberg.
His availability gives Leipzig an additional attacking option, especially with Christopher Nkunku doubtful because of an adductor problem.
Assan Ouédraogo and Marc Guiu also remain unavailable through injury.
For Demichelis, Saturday represents an opportunity to restore confidence, make better use of his squad, and demonstrate that the Red Bulls can respond to adversity.
Another disappointing performance would only increase the scrutiny surrounding his position.
From here the stage only gets bigger.
Comments
Powered by RoundtableAn AI/DeFi-powered Enterprise Media Operating System. Learn more at Roundtable.io.© Roundtable 2026. By using this site you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy