Baumgartner returns to RB Leipzig starting XI for Man City clash

Christoph Baumgartner is back in the RB Leipzig starting lineup for the Champions League home match against Manchester City on Wednesday. Manager Martin Demichelis announced the team on Tuesday evening, reinstating the 27-year-old midfielder who is now fully fit after a long injury layoff.

Baumgartner has scored three goals and provided one assist in all competitions since his return. His most recent strike came in the win at Rot-Weiß Essen, where he scored a late brace. RB Leipzig have just one win from three group games and need a result against the holders to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. Demichelis's side are fourth in the Bundesliga with 15 points from eight games, comprising five wins and three defeats, and are on a three-game winning streak. They are three points behind the league leaders.

Demichelis notes progress

Martin Demichelis highlighted his team's positive steps over the past week. He said football was not a wish concert. The team had good and bad games at the start of the season. A new group, new coach and new staff took time. The past week had done them good. His team was now not only more emotionally stable but also in their idea of play with the ball. With 22 goals scored and only 11 conceded in the league, the team shows a solid offensive and defensive record.

The win at Schalke 04 last Saturday was the third victory in a row, solidifying their place in the standings. Their last five matches across all competitions have yielded three wins and two losses. In the Champions League, the return leg in Manchester follows in a fortnight.

Baumgartner expressed confidence. He said they had shown in phases in Madrid that they could keep up with such teams. They had to be brave. In the defeat at Real Madrid, he came off the bench to provide the assist for his side's consolation goal. The home match at the Red Bull Arena kicks off at 21:00 and will be broadcast on DAZN.

More detail at WELT