RB Leipzig vs SV Elversberg: Demichelis Plans Rotation as Bundesliga Clash Looms

RB Leipzig host SV Elversberg in the Bundesliga on Saturday, 24 October, with kick-off at 15:30 at the Red Bull Arena. The match is a chance for the home side to respond after two recent defeats, while the visitors from Saarland arrive with a growing list of injured players.

Leipzig look to rotate after tough week

Leipzig coach Martin Demichelis said his side needed to get back to winning ways after two bitter defeats against Elversberg's league rivals and a Champions League loss. He stressed that every Bundesliga opponent receives the same level of respect and that the target is three points. "We need fresh legs and fresh energy," he said.

Because of a demanding schedule, Demichelis is expected to rotate. Benjamin Henrichs and Max Finkgräfe could start at full-back, while Ridle Baku and David Raum may be rested. Maxime Estève is a possible option in central defence, and Ezechiel Banzuzi is expected back in midfield. Whether Brajan Gruda, Andrija Maksimovic or Christoph Baumgartner will play in the advanced role is still open, with Demichelis reportedly signalling that Baumgartner's return to the starting XI could come too early.

Christopher Nkunku, who has been dealing with adductor problems, is unlikely to be risked. Tidiam Gomis, who scored in Madrid, could start on the right wing. Reports also suggest goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland could get match practice, though Demichelis has not confirmed this. Assan Ouédraogo (shoulder surgery) and Marc Guiu (thigh muscle tear) are definitely out.

Elversberg face injury problems

Elversberg have been hit by a series of injuries. Francis Onyeka was hurt before the international break in the match at Schalke, and Cole Campbell returned from international duty carrying a knock. Noah Darvich and Jan Gyamerah had to be substituted before half-time against Augsburg, and Tom Zimmerschied did not make the squad.

Coach Vincent Wagner played down the concern, describing some absences as short-term and saying that a few players could return this weekend. He said he still has enough options. Wagner also praised the hosts, saying Leipzig are "an incredibly strong team" that had the second-best season in the club's history last year and was unhappy with that result.

Wagner added that Elversberg are not underestimated, but are probably not taken as seriously as Real Madrid, which he said was acceptable.

Strong home record meets away struggles

At home, Leipzig have been strong this season. Reports state they have won all three home league matches, scoring 14 goals without conceding, and no team has beaten them in their arena so far. Their most recent home defeat came in January. Eintracht Frankfurt lost 6-0 there in their last visit.

Away from home the picture is different. Leipzig have lost their last two road games, conceding 10 goals in those matches, and Demichelis is under pressure. The club wanted more attractive football after the summer coaching change, but results remain the priority, and in Leipzig that means at least a Champions League place.

In the table, Leipzig sit one point behind Elversberg, and seventh place only qualifies for European competition under certain conditions. The gap to the Champions League places is currently four points, according to SR.de. The two clubs have met only twice before, both in the 2012/13 third-division season, and the home side won both matches.

What we know so far

The match kicks off at 15:30 CET on Saturday at the Red Bull Arena, with live coverage on Sky in Germany, and audio streams available via ARD Sounds and Sportschau. Leipzig's final line-up will depend on how Demichelis manages his rotation, and Elversberg's availability will be clearer closer to kick-off. Both sides have plenty to play for, with Leipzig needing a response and Elversberg looking to test a team with a strong home record.