The Moroccan international discusses his deadline-day move from Roma, embracing a hybrid midfield role and his personal motivations for tackling a high-intensity challenge in the Bundesliga.
Neil El Aynaoui has begun his RB Leipzig adventure with a clear idea of what he wants from his latest move: regular football, a new challenge, and the opportunity to establish himself in one of Europe's major leagues.
The 25-year-old midfielder completed a deadline-day move from AS Roma to Leipzig, arriving on loan as the German club strengthened their midfield before the transfer window closed. In his first interview since joining the Red Bulls, El Aynaoui explained that the opportunity to play in the Bundesliga was one of the main reasons behind his decision.
It was always a dream of mine to play in the Bundesliga for a big club like RB Leipzig. My initial talks with the club left me with a good feeling and I was very impressed by RBL.
For El Aynaoui, the move represents another step in an unusual footballing journey.
Born in France, he developed in Spain before continuing his career in France and eventually in Italy. His international career has taken him in another direction, with the midfielder representing Morocco at the World Cup.
That combination of experiences has helped shape the player Leipzig is bringing into their squad.
El Aynaoui does not see himself as a midfielder restricted to one specific role. Instead, he describes himself as a versatile player capable of influencing the game at both ends of the pitch. His ability to cover ground and contribute defensively could make him particularly useful in a Leipzig midfield built around intensity and transition.
I'd call myself a hybrid player. I can play at a number of different positions in midfield. I like being able to help out both in attack and defence, as well as running hard in order to help the team.
His choice of shirt number carries a more personal meaning. El Aynaoui will wear No. 21 at Leipzig, a decision linked to his younger brother's birthday.
I chose the number 21 because my younger brother was born on 21st August. So I chose it for him.
The midfielder also arrives with strong connections to other Moroccan internationals who have experience in German football. Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saibari both offered El Aynaoui positive feedback about life in Germany, helping convince him that Die Roten Bullen was the right destination.
He even spent part of the summer with Saibari in southern France, where football naturally became part of their conversations. Their friendship will soon turn into rivalry, however, with Leipzig set to face Bayern Munich during the season.
Yes, we've already spoken about this to each other. I'm really looking forward to these games.
El Aynaoui's ambitions are not limited to the Bundesliga.
His biggest career memory so far came with Morocco at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The midfielder highlighted the victory over the Netherlands on penalties in the knockout stage as a particularly unforgettable moment.
That experience now provides the foundation for his next challenge.
I'm very happy to be part of this club now. I'm excited to get underway and can't wait to see you all soon at the Red Bull Arena!
Leipzig is giving El Aynaoui the chance to establish himself in Germany, while the midfielder arrives with international experience and the motivation to prove himself at a new level.
