Maxime Estève

Esteve (thigh) had recently been dealing with an injury, but the center back has rejoined collective training this week and is included in the group for Saturday's opener against Gladbach, according to the club.

Analysis: Esteve had missed the Telekom Cup match against Bayern Munich and the DFB Pokal win, but his return to full training now positions him for a potential appearance in the Bundesliga opener against Borussia Monchengladbach, even if a starting role likely comes too soon, with Castello Lukeba expected to continue at center back.

Aug 25, 2026

Returns to team training

Esteve (thigh) returned to team training Tuesday after missing RB Leipzig's last two matches with a muscle bruise, the club announced.

Analysis: Esteve initially missed the Telekom Cup against FC Bayern Munich and was also unavailable for the 6:0 victory in the DFB Cup but the summer signing has overcome his thigh issue and is back in training ahead of Saturday's Bundesliga opener against Borussia Monchengladbach. While his return boosts his chances of featuring, it will likely be too soon for him to reclaim a starting spot, with Castello Lukeba expected to start at center-back.