RB Leipzig reshuffles for the home debut against Heidenheim, deploying a starting XI altered in four spots after their heavy 0-6 loss to Bayern Munich. The defense remains unchanged, but the midfield sees two new faces, while the attack gets a first-time starter for Romulo.
Four new players in the lineup: the home side’s starting XI for the season’s home opener
Leipzig – After the 0-6 defeat to Bayern, coach Ole Werner rotates four positions for the home debut of the season against 1. FC Heidenheim (kick-off 15:30). The back line stays the same, but Christoph Baumgartner and Ezechiel Banzuzi come into midfield, while Nicolas Seiwald has to settle for a place on the bench. Xavi Simons has left for Tottenham Hotspur.
Romulo makes his first start up front, with Antonio Nusa operating on the left wing. Against Bayern, Yan Diomande started in attack.
Not in the squad are Arthur Vermeeren, and the departures likely to leave the club include Kevin Kampl, Lukas Klostermann, Timo Werner, Eljif Elmas and Lutsharel Geertruida. Amadou Haidara is sidelined with an injury. Lois Openda, who has been linked with a move away, sits on the bench.
RB Leipzig: Gulacsi – Baku, Orban, Lukeba, Raum – Schlager, Baumgartner, Banzuzi – Bakayoko, Romulo, Nusa.
What to watch and added context
– The defense keeps faith with a familiar four, suggesting Leipzig want solidity at the back while testing new supply from midfield and fresh forward combinations.
– Baumgartner and Banzuzi bring different profiles to the midfield, with Baumgartner often deployed as a creative hub and Banzuzi providing pace and directness.
– Romulo’s first start signals a willingness to unleash a dynamic attack, while Nusa is tasked with providing width on the flank.
– The absence of several rotation targets and transfer-linked players indicates Leipzig are balancing immediate results with squad evaluation for the season ahead.
Brief summary
RB Leipzig rotate their lineup for the home opener against Heidenheim, introducing Baumgartner and Banzuzi in midfield and giving Romulo his first start, with Nusa on the wing. Several established players are out or on the move, while the defense remains unchanged. The changes point to a focus on fresh ideas in midfield and attack while maintaining defensive stability.
Positive takeaway
The lineup shows Leipzig’s depth and willingness to integrate new talent like Baumgartner, Banzuzi, and Romulo, aiming to bounce back from the heavy defeat and build momentum at home.