RB Leipzig's Goalkeeping Shuffle: Rose Backs Blaswich, Gulacsi Seeks National Team Spot
In a recent turn of events at RB Leipzig, coach Marco Rose has shown faith in goalkeeper Janis Blaswich despite some erratic performances. "Consistent performance over a year justifies our trust in Janis, and there's no need to worry about that," stated the 47-year-old manager.
Blaswich's slip-ups have resulted in conceded goals against Wolfsburg and Dortmund, and he displayed signs of insecurity in matches against lesser opponents. The latest incident occurred in a home game against Heidenheim, where he let in a long-range shot.
Despite these hiccups, Rose opted to give veteran Peter Gulacsi a chance to regain some match practice in the Champions League match against Young Boys Bern on Wednesday. Gulacsi, who sustained a cruciate ligament injury in October 2022, was once the undisputed star between the posts for RB Leipzig before his injury.
Regardless of his current situation, Gulacsi, a Hungarian international, is determined to represent his country in the upcoming European Championships inside German borders. Achieving this goal necessitates regular match time, which he is unlikely to receive in Leipzig due to Blaswich's impressive form since his return from injury.
Rose, however, expects Gulacsi to remain with the club until the end of the season. There's no indication whatsoever that the 33-year-old is contemplating a departure from Leipzig. "As far as we can see, Pete isn't considering making any major changes," Rose confirmed.
Against Young Boys Bern, featured by Rose as "many deserving of our trust," we can anticipate significant rotations. Defender Christopher Lenz is likely to relieve national team player David Raum, while Liverpool loanee Fabio Carvalho stands a chance of starting in attacking midfield. Kevin Kampl may also feature in central midfield, while Nicolas Seiwald is expected to play alongside him.
Upended Goalkeeping Dynamics: Gulacsi's Uncertain Future and Blaswich's Opportunity
As of now, RB Leipzig is grappling with a precarious goalkeeping predicament. Goalkeepers Peter Gulacsi and Janis Blaswich are vying for the starting position in a volatile situation.
- Current Scenario:
- Peter Gulacsi: Despite being RB Leipzig's long-time starter, Gulacsi's position has come under threat since Blaswich's emergence. Gulacsi has been out with a long-term injury and has found it difficult to regain his starting spot after the return.
- Janis Blaswich: Blaswich took over as the main goalkeeper during Gulacsi's injury and has maintained his position even after his competitor's recovery.
- Future Plans:
- Maarten Vandevoort: RB Leipzig has signed Maarten Vandevoort from Genk, considered a promising young goalkeeper who is set to assume the number one jersey beginning from the 2025/26 season.
- Gulacsi’s Contract: Gulacsi's contract runs until 2026, with an automatic extension for another year if he meets certain performance requirements in the next season.
- National Team Prospects:
- Peter Gulacsi: Gulacsi, who has 58 international caps for Hungary, is motivated to participate in the 2026 World Cup. Securing a starting position is crucial for both his personal achievement and his club's future in the competition.
- Janis Blaswich: Blaswich has yet to emerge as a potential candidate for the Hungary national team. His representation at the international level remains uncertain compared to Gulacsi.
- Champions League Match Against Young Boys Bern:
- The incertitude in RB Leipzig's goalkeeping department may impact their performance against Young Boys Bern in the Champions League. If Gulacsi's form and role are unclear, it might affect the team's cohesion and overall strategy.
In sum, Gulacsi's future is by no means secure, and Blaswich's unstable reign as the primary goalkeeper complicates Leipzig's preparation for the Champions League and Gulacsi's aspirations for the Hungarian national team.
