- RB sports director Shepherd on Olmo switch: "I'm relaxed"
After re-signing Xavi Simons, Leipzig's new sporting director, Marcel Schäfer, is now focusing on the next top personality, Dani Olmo. "He's an exceptional player who has value for us," said the 40-year-old, who took over from Max Eberl at Bundesliga club RB Leipzig on August 1st. "We're ready to discuss it, but we're quite relaxed about it at the moment."
The Spanish European champion Olmo has been linked with FC Barcelona in recent times, with Manchester City and record champions Munich also said to be interested. However, according to consistent media reports, Leipzig has so far rejected offers from these clubs. The market value of the 26-year-old Spaniard, who is contracted to RB until 2027, is currently estimated at 60 million euros.
Meanwhile, the European champion arrived back in Leipzig on Monday evening with his advisor and is expected to join training on Thursday as planned. "I think it's good that he's here early. That's very commendable and professional. The talks will determine the rest," said Schäfer. "If there's a solution by Thursday, then there will be one. Then he'll join training and we'll have another top player in our ranks."
Schäfer emphasizes that the club has so far succeeded in retaining its key players. Overall, the new sporting director of the Saxons hopes that the largely intact squad will provide another performance boost. "The goal can only be to change the letterhead with new titles. That's what we're all aiming for," said Schäfer. "I'm a fan of big ambitions and approaching them with full enthusiasm and excitement."
From July 2018 to January 2023, Schäfer worked as sporting director for VfL Wolfsburg. Subsequently, the former professional took on the role of sporting director until April 10, 2024. He signed a contract with Leipzig until the summer of 2028.
"I need to get a picture of the structures first," said the 40-year-old, who once again praised the good work done in the past. "Then I want to contribute my part to further develop the club. And that includes the women's football department and the academy, where there is still much potential."
Sports play a significant role in the plans of Leipzig's new sporting director, Marcel Schäfer. He aims to maintain the club's key players and strengthen the squad, aiming for new titles in the future.
RB Leipzig has been successful in keeping its top talents in sports, with Schäfer emphasizing that the team's ambition is to change the letterhead with new titles.
