PREVIEW: Leipzig Go With Youth Ahead of Supercup Bayern Clash

photo from RB Leipzig

by Anthony J. Merced

Saturday will mark the first meaningful game in RB Leipzig's 2023-24 season when they play Bayern Munich in the annual Supercup, a game between the winners of the Bundesliga, Bayern Munich, and the German Cup, RB Leipzig. In particular, it marks a new beginning for the East German club as several key contributors have left the team only to be replaced by unproven, youthful, players.

"We believe that they are ready for this challenge," said head coach Marco Rose when speaking on his young team. "It will help them to develop their game. This group has grown close over a short period of time, and we've been really impressed with how quickly the boys have gelled."

Leipzig saw Christopher Nkunku, Andre Silva, Konrad Laimer, Josko Gvardiol, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexander Sorloth depart the club only to be replaced by the likes of Lois Openda and Castello Lukeba. While the names may not be familiar, Leipzig have had a strong history of cycling through players, specifically those who have high upside.

Their first test will be the toughest in German football, Bayern Munich, a team who themselves come into the season with many questions. Last season's record 11th straight Bundesliga title came in an exciting final match-day where rivals Borussia Dortmund failed to seal a win to end the dominance of the Bavarian powerhouse. Tomas Tuchel will have a full preseason of preparation in order to direct one of the more talented sides in world football back to prominence.

"The boys thrive when playing against this standard of a team," said Rose. "After this fixture, it will be clear where we stand and how we can improve."

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