Sport

RB Leipzig’s Identity Crisis: Why Germany Wants Them to Fail

RB Leipzig are the most hated club in Germany. Their sheer existence is the antithesis of the country’s fan-centric football culture and identity, only existing as a force in the Bundesliga thanks to its takeover by worldwide energy drink conglomerate Red Bull in 2009. The club’s name was changed from SSV Makranstadt and were soon promoted through the leagues from the fifth tier thanks to their newfound wealth. Now, their squad is one of the best in the league and beyond.

Yet last season, they missed out on European qualification and are facing something of a crossroads in their project. It is hard to see anybody having much sympathy.

German football views itself as a safe haven for the way things used to be, and should be. It is for the supporters, more than just a sport; communities gather and embrace shared pride; tickets are fairly priced, beer is cheap and can be drunk from your seat. Most pertinently, before 1998, private investment in football clubs was completely prohibited, before the 50+1 rule came in to ensure the people are always in charge, owning the majority of the shares in their club. The Leipzig story is a bit of a stain on the entire idea; though technically adhered to, a small pool of the club’s members are all employees of Red Bull. For some, disregarding the spirit of the rules is worse than outright breaking them.

It is also impossible for Leipzig to grow with any sense of authenticity. There is no history, no huge fanbase, no community. Some locals and supporters of the club in its old guise have stuck around, but the stadium is vast and rarely full; away fans have often boycotted in protest. The atmosphere isn’t what you’ll find anywhere else in Germany, even down the league; in essence the club is a perfect embodiment of their owners: a cold, soulless, business entity.

Yet, the team has been successful over the past 16 years, building a talented squad of players, winning the German Cup twice, reaching the Champions League and, some years even challenging Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga title. Yet after the disappointment of the last campaign, there are questions over how they can get back on track.

The club’s recruitment policy is based around attracting exciting young talent, developing them and selling for profit. Regularly qualifying for the Champions League has always meant they can sell on their own terms and afford to grow continuously, but failure has unsettled a number of players.

Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko never forced his way out, but had a “gentleman’s agreement” that he could move to a club he deemed “special” made a bid that matched Leipzig’s valuation, he could go. Last week, the 22-year-old signed for Manchester United in a £74m deal. Xavi Simons only joined on a permanent deal last summer, and he wants to leave; Chelsea are expected to sign him, with Leipzig reportedly wanting £60m. Lois Openda, Sesko’s strike partner, is also being linked with an exit.

Sesko leaves the club in a more than amicable way, but it is a blow to lose him in a position of weakness.

“Thank you to everyone at RB Leipzig and to the fans for the last two years. I will take several special memories with me.

“I’m extremely grateful to the club and its management for providing me with the optimal conditions to continue my development.

“The Red Bulls will forever have a place in my heart and I will be sure to keep tabs on how the club and my former teammates are doing. Einmal Leipzig, immer Leipzig!”

Clubs in Leipzig’s position are used to upheaval, but it must be managed accordingly. This is the club’s biggest challenge, arguably since Red Bull’s arrival in many ways. But rest assured the rest of German football is watching on hoping to see a huge implosion.