RB Coach Demichelis Aims for a Solid Cup Performance in Trier

RB Leipzig’s cup match against Regionalliga club Eintracht Trier is overshadowed by transfer issues. Head coach Martín Demichelis highlighted the complex situation ahead of the Bundesliga club’s first competitive match. “It’s a difficult moment; I’ve spoken with the entire squad. Marcel knows what I need—I’m in daily contact with him,” said the Argentine regarding his discussions with sporting director Marcel Schäfer, adding: “Anyone who is unhappy must remain loyal to the club and say, ‘I don’t want to stay.’” 

Harder likely has no future at RB

One personnel decision is already taking shape. Forward Conrad Harder, who was signed last summer, will likely no longer play a key role. “I’ve had two one-on-one conversations with him and told him that Tidiam Gomis is starting in Trier,” said Demichelis, as striker Romulo is sidelined with tendon irritation. Also out are Assan Ouédraogo (shoulder injury), Christoph Baumgartner (knee injury), Eljif Elmas (blow sustained in training), and Maxime Esteve (thigh injury) will all be unavailable for Coach Demichelis’s first competitive match this Saturday (6:00 p.m./Sky) in the DFB Cup. 

Demichelis Wants to See a Serious Performance

In Trier, the new coach wants to see “hunger” right from the start. “We have great respect for every opponent and have, of course, thoroughly analyzed Eintracht Trier. At the same time, the focus is on us: on our strengths and on the things we want to improve. I expect a solid performance from us tomorrow—both with and without the ball,” said the 45-year-old. He now wants to see a step forward in all areas—despite a few injuries.

“Against Leeds, right after training camp, we were still a bit tired and didn’t really show much of our game plan. Against Bayern, however, we saw clear progress. Now it’s about putting in a solid performance,” said Demichelis, who reached the cup final four times and won the trophy four times as a player with FC Bayern Munich.