RB Leipzig’s injury concerns are increasing. Lutsharel Geertruida had to leave the Champions League match against Celtic (3-1) early on Tuesday night due to a muscle injury. Coach Marco Rose could not provide a definitive update afterward.
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Rose had already used all five substitutions allowed in the match when Geertruida indicated he couldn’t continue, signaling an unexpected turn of events for RB Leipzig.
The 23-year-old defender, who arrived from Feyenoord to strengthen Leipzig's backline, showed visible discomfort as he shook his head in response to Rose's question about whether he could carry on. This left Leipzig in a precarious position, forced to play the remainder of the game in Glasgow with only ten players against a determined Celtic side, which already presented a challenging environment in the Champions League. This setback ultimately impacted Leipzig’s defensive structure, exposing the team to further pressure.
The situation has added to the growing injury woes within Leipzig’s squad, particularly concerning their defense. Geertruida’s potential injury couldn’t come at a worse time for the team. Just days before, Geertruida played the full ninety minutes in an intense Bundesliga match against Borussia Dortmund, which Leipzig lost 2-1. Reflecting on this, Rose expressed his concern about the cumulative toll on his players, stating, “I hope we’re not paying the price for that today and that he doesn’t end up being sidelined as well.” Rose’s comments highlight his concern over the current strain on Leipzig’s roster, with Geertruida’s participation in back-to-back demanding matches now potentially costing the team even more.
Leipzig’s defensive line is already heavily impacted by injuries, particularly on the left flank. Castello Lukeba and David Raum are both sidelined, leaving Leipzig without natural left-sided defenders. Lukas Klostermann, another option who could bring stability to the backline, is also still recovering from a knee injury and isn’t ready for action. On top of that, Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons has been absent for the last four games due to an ankle injury, further limiting Leipzig’s lineup options. The injuries have forced Rose to make adjustments to the lineup, often leaving him with a makeshift backline that lacks the usual cohesion and balance.
The uncertainty around Geertruida’s availability extends beyond Leipzig’s concerns, as it could also impact the Netherlands national team. The Dutch defender’s potential absence comes just as the Netherlands is preparing for important international fixtures. A clearer picture of Geertruida’s condition is expected by Thursday, at which point Dutch national coach Ronald Koeman will assess whether the defender can be included in the squad. Koeman is scheduled to announce his final selection on Friday, and losing Geertruida could force him to look for alternative defensive options, potentially disrupting his initial plans for the national lineup.
This wave of injuries has coincided with a difficult start to Leipzig’s Champions League campaign. Despite the team’s strong performance in the Bundesliga, they are still seeking their first points in Europe’s most prestigious competition. Reflecting on the match against Celtic, Rose acknowledged the team’s struggles and identified defensive vulnerabilities as a key issue. “We had a difficult start and didn’t defend well enough,” Rose said. “Right now, we’re not reaching the level required to win matches.” His admission points to Leipzig’s current challenges as they try to balance their aspirations in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
The team’s depth is being tested as they navigate a packed schedule, with several injured players still not ready to return. This situation is placing a heavy burden on the remaining squad members, who now face the dual challenge of maintaining competitive performances domestically and internationally. As Leipzig looks ahead, their ability to manage these injury setbacks will be critical for their season, particularly if Geertruida joins the list of absentees.
Updated: 11:21, 6 Nov 2024
