Leipzig's Roster Woes: Reitz Out, Gruda's Future Uncertain

After just the first Bundesliga game of the new season, RB Leipzig’s new coach, Martin Demichelis, is already facing major lineup concerns. Rocco Reitz, a regular starter, is definitely out for weeks, and Brajan Gruda’s availability for Saturday’s match against Werder Bremen (3:30 p.m./Sky) is highly doubtful.

Reitz suffered a thigh injury in training and is not expected back until after the international break at the earliest. Gruda sustained an ankle injury during the 3-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach in the season opener. “We’ll have to see what’s possible. He’s injured,” said Demichelis. A decision is expected tomorrow.

Two new faces in the starting lineup?

Two new signings could step in as replacements. Returning player Christopher Nkunku could take over Gruda’s role. “He trained separately in Milan, but now he’s back training with the team. He’s ready for the starting lineup, but we’ll see,” said Demichelis. The transition has been easy for Nkunku, who previously played for Leipzig from 2019 to 2023. He still knows the players, the club, and the city.

For Reitz, the Moroccan Neil El Aynaoui could slot right into the starting lineup. The World Cup participant was loaned from AS Roma on the last day of the transfer window. Demichelis emphasized that the midfielder might still be a bit tired due to the adjustment to a different country, a different culture, and a different club. He wants to clarify this in a one-on-one conversation.

Schäfer’s third attempt with Guiu

Marc Guiu, who was also signed on Tuesday, should at least find a spot on the roster. The center forward is expected to add elements that have been missing from Leipzig’s play so far. “He can help us in various situations,” said Demichelis. “He’s fast, he presses well, he’s 1.87 meters tall—he has a lot going for him.”

At Chelsea FC, the Spanish player—who cost 15 million euros—hardly saw any playing time over the past two years. “He’s grown a lot,” Demichelis said, describing his development. Leipzig had already tried to sign the 20-year-old twice before. “We had him on our list in 2024 and tried again in 2025. That’s when I told myself, ‘Now you’ll try one more time, and then you’ll take him off the list,’” said sporting director Marcel Schäfer about the transfer.