Football Season Guide

RB Leipzig failed to mount any sort of title challenge last season and needed a strong run of form in the final weeks to secure a top four finish that saw them secure their minimum aim of Champions League football. Leipzig start the new season slightly on the backfoot, having lost a key player in Dani Olmo to Barcelona. Though the midfielder struggled with injuries last season, making just 17 starts, he was a critical component of their attack and will be a big miss. They have not managed to sign in a replacement so far, instead going the route of the youth by bringing in Antonio Nusa and Assan Ouedraogo from Club Brugge and Schalke respectively. Leipzig have also brought in promising keeper Maarten Vandevoordt from Genk but coach Rose has confirmed Gulacsi will remain the first choice at least as the season kicks off. The biggest positive in the transfer window so far has been the club's ability to convince Xavi Simons to extend his loan deal for another season, with the midfielder having been of interest both to Bayern Munchen and Manchester United. Apart from Olmo, there have not been any major departures for Leipzig with Angelino sold to Roma while Blaswich has been sent out on loan and Lenz released at the end of the transfer window. Leipzig played some good football last season but consistency was the biggest problem that prevented from closing the gap to the top and Rose will be looking for improvement this season. Leipzig are favorites for another top four finish this season though uncertainty at Dortmund and Munchen could see them mount a title challenge provided they are more consistent over the course of the campaign.