Explore the rising stars at RB Leipzig making waves in German and European football with skill, speed, and high potential.

RB Leipzig’s Rising Stars To Watch

In just over a decade, RB Leipzig has emerged as one of Europe’s most intriguing and ambitious clubs. Known for its youth-first philosophy, tactical innovation, and fast-paced Mega H5, the club has become a launchpad for some of the finest young talents in modern football. From Dayot Upamecano to Josko Gvardiol, and Christopher Nkunku to Timo Werner, Leipzig’s player development model is widely admired across Europe.

Heading into the 2025 season and beyond, Leipzig is once again stacked with promising young talent. In this article, we spotlight the rising stars to watch at RB Leipzig—players who are not just names for the future, but impact-makers in the present.

1. Benjamin Šeško – The Next Great Striker?

Slovenian forward Benjamin Šeško has been turning heads since his move from Red Bull Salzburg. Standing at 6’4” with blistering pace, sharp positioning, and a powerful finish, he’s been dubbed by many as the “next Haaland” due to his similar profile.

Why He’s Special:

• Quick acceleration for his size

• Strong aerial ability

• Confident in one-on-one duels

• Excellent movement in the box

At just 21, Šeško is already Leipzig’s frontline threat and is expected to lead the attack well into the future.

2. Xavi Simons – The Creative Spark

On loan from PSG, Xavi Simons has been nothing short of spectacular. With dazzling dribbling skills, exceptional vision, and a work rate that defies his flair-player stereotype, Simons has been Leipzig’s creative engine.

Key Attributes:

• Versatile: Can play as CAM, winger, or deeper midfielder

• Excellent ball control under pressure

• Top-tier progressive passing

• Can score from distance

If Leipzig secures his permanent transfer, Simons will be a cornerstone of the club’s footballing future.

3. Castello Lukeba – France’s Defensive Future

Signed from Lyon, Castello Lukeba is another addition to Leipzig’s tradition of developing elite center-backs. At only 21, his composure, tactical intelligence, and left-footed distribution make him one of the most exciting young defenders in Europe.

Strengths:

• Left-footed CB (valuable tactically)

• Reads the game exceptionally well

• Calm under pressure

• Strong tackler and recovery pace

His partnership with seasoned defenders provides the perfect environment for his growth.

4. Loïs Openda – Direct, Fast, and Deadly

After an excellent season at RC Lens, Loïs Openda arrived at Leipzig and brought instant energy to the forward line. With his direct style, lightning speed, and clinical finishing, he’s been a nightmare for Bundesliga defenders.

Why He’s One to Watch:

• Devastating in counter-attacks

• High work rate and pressing ability

• Impressive link-up play

• Still just 24 and improving

Openda could be the key to Leipzig’s success in domestic and European football.

5. Dani Olmo – The Established Leader Still Rising

While not a new name, Dani Olmo is entering the prime of his career and continues to grow as a leader within the squad. With his intelligence, versatility, and experience, he plays a crucial role in helping younger players adapt and thrive.

Valuable Traits:

• Tactical flexibility

• Leadership on and off the pitch

• Big-game performer

• Regular Spanish international

Olmo may already be a star, but his influence is still growing—on and off the ball.

6. El Chadaille Bitshiabu – Raw Power and Potential

At 18, Bitshiabu is one of the youngest rising talents in Leipzig’s squad. Signed from PSG, he’s already known for his towering frame (6’5”), raw strength, and surprising technical ability for a defender.

Development Focus:

• Ball distribution under pressure

• Tactical discipline

• Physical maturity in duels

With Leipzig’s track record in developing defenders, Bitshiabu could be another gem in the making.

7. Tom Krauß – Leipzig-Born and Ready to Lead

A product of Leipzig’s own academy, Tom Krauß returned after loan spells and is now pushing for a permanent role. A tenacious midfielder with a relentless engine, Krauß embodies the club’s values of aggression and energy.

Why He Matters:

• Local talent with club DNA

• Excellent ball-winning skills

• Great at linking defense and attack

• Mental toughness and maturity

His progress is being closely watched as Leipzig looks to increase its use of homegrown talent.

8. Christopher Lenz – Tactical Versatility

Lenz is one of the squad’s underrated assets, offering depth and tactical versatility. Capable of playing as a left-back, wing-back, or even in midfield, his ability to adapt is crucial in a system that demands fluidity.

Contributions:

• Experience to balance youth

• Sharp positional understanding

• Key in injury rotations and depth coverage

While not a rising “star” in the traditional sense, his role in stabilizing and supporting younger teammates is invaluable.

9. The RB Leipzig Youth Pipeline

Beyond the first team, Leipzig’s academy system and Red Bull’s global network (Salzburg, New York, Brazil) continue to churn out high-potential players.

Watchlist Names:

• Sanoussy Ba – Technical left-back with attacking flair

• Dennis Borkowski – Forward with smart off-ball movement

• Sidney Raebiger – Midfield maestro on loan, expected to return stronger

These players are gradually being introduced into the senior setup or sent out on strategic loans to gain experience.

10. The Red Bull Model: Why Leipzig Stands Out

RB Leipzig’s success is no accident. Their model is a fusion of elite scouting, modern analytics, tactical education, and financial discipline.

Key Principles:

• Buy young, sell smart

• Fast, aggressive football

• Give youth a chance

• Strong links with Red Bull Salzburg

This approach makes Leipzig one of the most exciting and forward-thinking clubs in European football.

🗣 Support Youth. Support Football!

RB Leipzig is not just building a team—they’re building the future of football. Their commitment to scouting, training, and trusting young talent sets a standard that more clubs should follow.

Let’s champion clubs that invest in development, nurture potential, and bring exciting young players into the spotlight. Whether you support Leipzig or not, if you love progress, you love football.