Timo Werner's Time at RB Leipzig Extended by Injury Woes
The Bundesliga landscape is set for a shakeup with 1. FC Heidenheim's upcoming clash against RB Leipzig due to an unanticipated twist: Timo Werner's prolonged absence. Werner, Leipzig's international striker, is sidelined due to lingering adductor issues and will not make the lineup for the Saturday match (3:30pm/Sky). "These problems are becoming more persistent," coach Marco Rose confirmed on Friday. Werner missed the previous matches against Wolfsburg and Manchester, and this latest setback has added to his medical woes this season, including a cold and back issues.
Meanwhile, Leipzig's esteemed captain, Willi Orban, also faces an extended layoff. Orban, who has been recovering from a torn collateral ligament in his knee since mid-September, is unlikely to return before the start of the New Year's training sessions. Coach Rose expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging that time is running out and no risks will be taken with Orban's recovery.
In a silver lining, young talent Xavi Simons might make his comeback for the Heidenheim match. Simons suffered an injury to his right shoulder in Manchester, but post-treatment, he looks set to feature. Coach Rose awaits further evaluation after Friday's training session to make a definitive decision.
Speculation surrounding Werner's potential winter leave from Leipzig has persisted. Sporting director Rouven Schröder added fuel to the rumors when he hinted at players having different priorities, but Werner's top-earning status and contract with Leipzig until 2026 present several challenges for a permanent move.
while Werner is currently on loan at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, dealing with a separate hamstring injury. Ange Postecoglou, Spurs manager, has suggested that Werner's return to action is imminent, within the next 10 days.
In the interim, Leipzig's attack will lean heavily on its other players, needing to demonstrate resilience and adaptability without two vital cogs in their engine room. With Bayern Munich holding a commanding lead in the Bundesliga and Leipzig eager to close the gap, the pressure is on for a strong performance against a formidable Heidenheim.
Sources: [1] [2] [Link to source, no longer available] [3] [Link to source, no longer available]
