Both with knee injuries: Nedeljkovic and Finkgräfe ruled out

RB Leipzig have been dealt a double setback in their defensive department, as both Kosta Nedeljkovic and Max Finkgräfe will be sidelined for several weeks with knee problems.

Head coach Ole Werner will now have to manage without two of his full-back options at a crucial stage of the season, as Leipzig look to maintain their strong start in the Bundesliga while also competing on the European stage.

The situation first became apparent during the club’s public training session on Tuesday, where neither Nedeljkovic nor Finkgräfe participated. Subsequent medical checks have confirmed that the duo will both be unavailable for the foreseeable future. Nedeljkovic is dealing with a stress reaction in his right knee, an injury that demands rest and careful rehabilitation. Leipzig have confirmed he will require “a break of several weeks” before being able to return to action. Finkgräfe, meanwhile, is suffering from a medial ligament injury in his left knee, sustained in training last week. A thorough examination has now verified the initial fears, ruling the young defender out of action until at least mid-October.

The timing of the injuries is particularly frustrating for Werner, who had been gradually integrating his defensive options into the squad rotation. Nedeljkovic, the Serbian international, returned to Leipzig this season on loan from Aston Villa, having already spent the second half of last season with the club. While he has so far only featured in two short cameos this campaign both in home victories against Heidenheim (2-0) and Köln (3-1) his versatility and international experience were expected to provide depth during a busy schedule.

Finkgräfe’s situation is even more unfortunate. Signed this summer from 1. FC Köln for a transfer fee of four million euros, the 21-year-old left-back was eager to make his breakthrough at the Bundesliga contenders. Although he was named in the squad for Leipzig’s matches against Heidenheim and Mainz, he is still waiting for his first official appearance in the famous red and white shirt. His injury, particularly coming so soon after his arrival, represents a setback in his attempt to establish himself as a long-term option in the squad.

For Leipzig, the absence of two full-backs creates significant tactical challenges. Werner’s system relies heavily on dynamic wide defenders who can contribute both defensively and offensively, stretching the field and supporting attacking transitions. With Nedeljkovic and Finkgräfe both unavailable, the burden will likely fall on established starters such as Benjamin Henrichs and David Raum, who may now face heavier workloads with fewer opportunities for rest. The coaching staff could also be forced to adapt, potentially using makeshift solutions such as shifting central defenders to the flanks or turning to academy prospects to provide cover.

Looking ahead, Leipzig remain optimistic that both players could be back in contention after the October international break. The club has tentatively marked the Bundesliga home clash against Hamburger SV on October 18 as a possible return date for the pair, though much will depend on how their rehabilitation progresses. A cautious approach is likely, as Leipzig will want to avoid aggravating the injuries with an early comeback.

In the bigger picture, these injuries highlight the fine margins of squad management during a demanding season. Leipzig, currently sitting third in the Bundesliga, will also be competing in European fixtures and the DFB-Pokal in the coming weeks. Every absence narrows the options available to Werner and his coaching staff, increasing the importance of maintaining squad balance and avoiding further setbacks.

For Nedeljkovic and Finkgräfe, the focus will now be on recovery and returning stronger. Nedeljkovic’s loan spell is a crucial opportunity to prove his value at the top level, while Finkgräfe is still eager to show why Leipzig invested in his potential. Both will be determined to make their mark once they are fit again, and their eventual returns could feel like new signings for Leipzig heading into the later stages of the season.

As the club awaits their comeback, Leipzig’s fans will be hoping the team can navigate the coming weeks without too much disruption. The injuries may be a blow, but they also present an opportunity for other players to step up and reinforce the depth and resilience of the squad.