Timo Werner’s Rollercoaster at Leipzig: Bright Start, Dim Returns

Current status at RB Leipzig

Werner, the 29-year-old German striker, has faced tough moments since returning to RB Leipzig from a loan spell at Tottenham. In the latest Bundesliga clash against Wolfsburg, he came on for just one minute, underscoring his minimal involvement this season.

Future in doubt and potential move

This situation has sparked questions about his future, especially after Leipzig attempted to move him last summer; they rejected an offer from New York Red Bulls. In an interview with Sport1, Guido Schaffer cited a harsh assessment from Ralph Rangnick regarding Werner's training habits, calling him “very lazy” in training. Schaffer notes a recent shift in attitude, with Werner reportedly telling observers that he is now training harder.

However, the chances of him playing a prominent role remain slim. Schaffer suggests he could still be used as a late substitute to capitalize on his pace. This fuels speculation about a winter departure, possibly to MLS, with New York Red Bulls among potential destinations. Leipzig's 2026 contract, carrying a salary of up to €11 million per year, weighs heavily in the decision.

Werner's career arc

Werner's career began at Stuttgart and truly blossomed at Leipzig, where he tallied 113 goals and 45 assists across four seasons. In 2020 he moved to Chelsea for about €53 million, helping Chelsea win the Champions League in 2021, before a gradual decline in scoring form. A return to Leipzig in 2022 did not meet expectations, followed by a disappointing loan at Tottenham in 2024, and a bench role since then.

With a contract through 2026 and a hefty salary, talks of a move persist, particularly to MLS in January.

Legacy at Leipzig and the road ahead

Schaffer defends Werner's historical contributions: during his first spell at the club, he scored 113 goals and provided 45 assists, a central plank in Leipzig's rise. Werner's pace and ability to exploit space remain assets, but the team's pressing style and collective approach may be ill-suited to his strengths.

As the January window nears, a move to New York Red Bulls or other MLS sides could offer Werner a fresh start in a less pressurized environment, potentially reviving his career away from European spotlight.

Enduring theme Werner's journey remains a study in flashes of brilliance meeting a demanding system and high expectations.

Punchlines

Punchline 1: If consistency were a bullet, Werner would still be loading.

Punchline 2: Bundesliga benches: Werner's true home—he's been sitting there so long the chair filed a complaint.