RB Leipzig’s Ole Werner Discusses Striker Challenges Ahead of Match Against Borussia Mönchengladbach

Ole Werner, the head coach of RB Leipzig, has confirmed that he will once again be without his primary striker, Romulo, for the upcoming weekend match. The Brazilian forward continues to struggle with a hamstring injury, which leaves Werner dependent on Danish forward Conrad Harder to lead the attack. Leipzig is set to face Borussia Mönchengladbach on Saturday night for the 12th matchday of the 2025/26 Bundesliga season.

Harder recently made his first start for RB Leipzig against Werner’s former club, Werder Bremen, last Sunday. Although the 20-year-old was unable to score and received a booking during the match, Werner expressed general satisfaction with his performance, considering it a solid beginning for the summer signing.

However, Harder will need to step up considerably in the next match, as Assan Ouédraogo, the standout offensive player in Leipzig’s victory over Bremen, will be sidelined due to injury. This situation may require Werner to significantly adjust his tactical approach to accommodate for Ouédraogo’s absence.

“I thought he got off to an extremely good start,” Werner remarked during the post-match press conference. “It’s challenging for a striker when the opponent plays very defensively. I would have liked to see him be more assertive with additional runs, but I appreciated his movements into the box. Overall, he performed well and has a foundation to build upon.”

“I believe Harder is progressing well,” Werner reiterated on Thursday. “He did an excellent job, particularly in his defensive work and counter-pressing. This is the primary attribute I expect from my strikers, as our success depends on collective pressing and solid defensive efforts from everyone.”