RB Leipzig to be without Maxime Estève RB Leipzig will have to do without new defensive leader Maxime Estève in the DFB Cup against fourth-tier Trier on Saturday. The Frenchman, who joined from Burnley just weeks ago, picked up a thigh injury in training. The club does not want to take any risks and is targeting his return for the Bundesliga opener against Gladbach in two weeks. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 3rd in Bundesliga, 65 pts, 20W-5D-9L from 34 games, recent form LWLWW. ## How serious is Estève’s injury? Estève’s injury is not severe, but Leipzig wants to avoid unnecessary risks. The 24-year-old missed the friendly against Bayern Munich (1:3) and will also sit out the Cup match. Coach Marco Rose plans to field the established defensive pairing of Castello Lukeba and Willi Orban, both of whom were recently linked with a move away but will stay for now.

Further absences and doubts In addition to Estève, Abdoul Koné, Assan Ouédraogo, and Christoph Baumgartner are confirmed absentees. Lukas Klostermann (groin) and goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, who has a cold, are doubtful. Nyland could get a chance in the Cup as the backup to Maarten Vandevoordt. Romulo, who missed the Bayern test, may also rest, giving Conrad Harder an opportunity.

What does this mean for preseason? The injury issues come at an inopportune time. Leipzig is still looking for a central striker to bolster the attack. With Estève as defensive leader and Nyland as a potential Cup goalkeeper, the team can focus on preparing for the Bundesliga.