RB Leipzig’s rapid ascent from the lower leagues to competing with Europe’s elite is nothing short of remarkable, and it’s a story shaped by extraordinary players whose impact continues to resonate.
The club’s journey has been marked by fierce ambition, precision scouting, and a roster of individuals who have not only met but raised the standards of German football.
This list of the 10 best players in RB Leipzig’s history isn’t just a tribute to individual talent—it’s a testament to the strategic and athletic evolution of the club itself.
Whenever they lost a star player, they had a handful maintaining the ideals and overall structure of the club with one or two additional true breakout stars ready to rise the occasion in the case of a departing attacking standout.
From the relentless pace and goal-scoring instinct of Timo Werner to the creative mastery of Emil Forsberg, Leipzig’s players have redefined what it means to succeed in modern football.
Each figure on this list brought a unique skill set, whether through tenacious defending, midfield control, or forward flair, forming the backbone of Leipzig’s identity.
As we explore the contributions of these players, we see a blend of loyalty and innovation that has propelled Leipzig from Bundesliga newcomers to Champions League contenders.
These 15 players didn’t just play for Leipzig—they helped build it, leaving an indelible mark on the club and etching their names into its young but storied history. After all, this is a club built on scouting the next big talents in European football.
FW Timo Werner
Timo Werner’s time at RB Leipzig was a masterclass in explosive goal-scoring and relentless pressing. His career with Leipzig between 2016 and 2020 stands as one of the most successful stints for a Bundesliga striker in recent memory, where his unique blend of pace, positioning, and tactical intelligence set him apart as one of Europe’s elite forwards. A deeper look into his talents, legacy, and statistics illustrates just how impactful Werner was at the club.
Werner’s most defining asset was his electrifying speed. His ability to burn defenders on the counter-attack became a trademark of Leipzig’s high-intensity style, making him a nightmare for defenders in open space.
But Werner’s pace was not a lone attribute; it was complemented by an outstanding positional awareness that allowed him to be in the right place at the right time. He beat offside traps with ease, often starting his run within his own half, just straddling the edge of the halfway line.
His off-the-ball movement forced defenders to either track his runs and leave space in behind or allow him freedom to exploit the defense’s structure. This mastery of timing made him an ideal fit for Julian Nagelsmann’s tactical philosophy, which thrived on quick transitions and direct play.
Statistically, Werner’s impact at Leipzig was undeniable. In the 2019/2020 Bundesliga season alone, he scored 28 goals and registered eight assists in 34 appearances, making him the second-highest scorer in the league behind only Robert Lewandowski.
His xG (expected goals) of 21.4 that season emphasized his proficiency in exceeding goal-scoring expectations, a trait that elite strikers possess. Werner averaged 3.8 shots per 90 minutes and was remarkably effective in finishing, boasting a shooting accuracy of 52%.
These numbers underscore not only his efficiency but his influence on Leipzig’s overall offensive output, where he directly contributed to a significant percentage of the club’s goals each season.
Werner’s time at Leipzig also built a legacy of excellence that extended beyond his scoring prowess. He became Leipzig’s all-time top scorer in the Bundesliga, surpassing 80 goals during his tenure.
His contribution to Leipzig’s rise as a competitive force in the Bundesliga and Champions League forged his reputation as a modern forward capable of thriving in high-stakes environments. For Leipzig, Werner wasn’t just a scorer; he was a symbol of their ascent, embodying the club’s ambition and intensity.
In essence, Timo Werner’s greatness at RB Leipzig was defined by his physical attributes, tactical intelligence, and consistency in delivering crucial goals. His legacy remains integral to the club’s history, marking him as one of the most influential players to wear the Leipzig colors.
AM Emil Forsberg
Emil Forsberg’s influence at RB Leipzig is the story of a player whose technical brilliance and vision catalyzed the club’s rise. Joining Leipzig in 2015, Forsberg quickly became the creative heartbeat of the team, setting the standard for playmaking in the Bundesliga.
His exceptional dribbling in tight spaces and precise passing allowed him to dictate the tempo, often acting as the link between Leipzig’s quick transitions and their attacking end product. Forsberg’s versatility to play both centrally and on the wing gave Leipzig flexibility, allowing him to exploit gaps in any formation.
Statistically, Forsberg’s numbers underscore his contribution to Leipzig’s success. In the 2016/17 Bundesliga season, he led the league in assists with 19, providing a remarkable level of support to the attack.
Forsberg consistently averaged around two key passes per game throughout his peak years, showcasing his knack for breaking down defenses. His shooting accuracy, combined with a knack for set-pieces, added another layer to his game, scoring crucial goals in high-pressure situations.
Forsberg’s legacy at Leipzig is built on his role as a trailblazer, helping cement the club’s position in Germany’s top tier. As one of their most loyal and talented players, his legacy resonates as an emblem of Leipzig’s upward trajectory in European football.
CM Marcel Sabitzer
Marcel Sabitzer’s time at RB Leipzig showcased the dynamism and leadership that elevated him as one of the Bundesliga’s most complete midfielders. Joining Leipzig in 2015, Sabitzer quickly became known for his technical skill, defensive tenacity, and versatility, thriving under different managers and tactical systems.
What set Sabitzer apart was his blend of intelligence and intensity, enabling him to seamlessly transition between attack and defense. His powerful, long-range shooting became a signature feature, often breaking deadlocks and inspiring his team in crucial matches.
In the 2019/20 season, Sabitzer’s statistics reflect his all-encompassing influence on the pitch. He scored 9 goals and contributed 7 assists in the Bundesliga alone, impressive numbers for a central midfielder and testament to his offensive capability.
His underlying metrics further highlighted his impact: he averaged 1.8 key passes and 1.4 tackles per 90 minutes, showcasing his dual role as a creator and a ball-winner. Sabitzer’s work rate and efficiency in both thirds of the pitch allowed Leipzig to maintain their high-pressing, high-intensity style.
Sabitzer’s legacy at Leipzig is deeply tied to the club’s success in domestic and European competitions, where he captained the team through some of its most successful seasons. His leadership and tactical prowess remain integral to Leipzig’s rapid growth and competitive spirit in Germany and beyond.
GK Peter Gulásci
Peter Gulácsi’s role at RB Leipzig is foundational, offering the team not just an exceptional goalkeeper but a steadying presence in high-stakes moments.
Gulácsi, who joined Leipzig in 2015, has distinguished himself with his shot-stopping reflexes, composure under pressure, and impressive command of the defensive line.
His consistency and ability to rise to big occasions has made him an invaluable asset, particularly as Leipzig ascended in both Bundesliga and Champions League competition.
Gulácsi’s intelligence and quick decision-making have allowed him to anticipate opponents’ moves, giving Leipzig a crucial last line of defense against some of Europe’s finest attackers.
Statistically, Gulácsi’s numbers affirm his importance to Leipzig’s defensive success. In the 2019/20 Bundesliga season, he boasted a save percentage of over 70% and maintained 10 clean sheets, standing out as one of the league’s top goalkeepers.
His skill in distribution has added another layer to Leipzig’s build-up play, with Gulácsi averaging around 85% pass accuracy—critical for Leipzig’s possession-focused game plan.
Gulácsi’s legacy at Leipzig is marked by his loyalty and consistency, as he has become a leader on and off the pitch. Revered for his professionalism and calm demeanor, he has helped shape Leipzig’s identity, solidifying his status as one of the club’s all-time greats.
It’s really remarkable how underrated Gulásci is, even within the Bundesliga. From 2018 to 2020, he was the best goalkeeper in the Bundesliga and remains one of the elite shot-stoppers in German football, even after an injury threatened his career.
ST Yussuf Poulsen
Yussuf Poulsen’s greatness at RB Leipzig stems from his unmatched work ethic, physicality, and resilience, which has made him an indispensable asset to the club’s rise.
Joining Leipzig in 2013, Poulsen’s journey has mirrored Leipzig’s ascent from the third tier of German football to the Bundesliga, embodying the club’s aggressive, high-energy style.
Poulsen’s relentless pressing and aerial ability have allowed him to dominate physically, serving as both a target man and a disruptor in Leipzig’s high-intensity system. His unselfish play creates space and opportunities for teammates, making him invaluable in both attack and defense.
Statistically, Poulsen’s contributions are evident in his dual role as a scorer and creator. His 2018/19 Bundesliga season stands out, where he netted 15 goals and added 3 assists—a career-high that highlighted his finishing improvement and ability to capitalize on counter-attacks.
Beyond the numbers, Poulsen consistently wins aerial duels and tackles, key to Leipzig’s pressing game, while his off-ball movement forced defensive errors and stretched opposition lines.
Poulsen’s legacy at Leipzig goes beyond his stats; as one of the longest-serving players, he became a symbol of the club’s ambition and grit. Known for his loyalty and leadership, Poulsen’s influence on Leipzig’s identity and success cement his place as a club legend.
CB Willi Orban
Willi Orban’s greatness at RB Leipzig is defined by his defensive resilience, leadership, and exceptional reading of the game. Joining Leipzig in 2015, Orban quickly established himself as a core figure in defense, becoming a foundational player as the club rose through the ranks to become a Bundesliga and Champions League contender.
Known for his physicality and aerial dominance, Orban has consistently thwarted attacks and led Leipzig’s backline with composure and discipline. His positioning and anticipation make him difficult to bypass, while his strength in aerial duels has given Leipzig a reliable edge against set-pieces and crosses.
Orban’s statistics underline his defensive consistency and influence. In the 2018/19 Bundesliga season, for instance, he averaged over 4 clearances, 2 interceptions, and nearly 2 tackles per game, embodying a true defensive anchor.
His aerial ability is equally significant—Orban regularly ranks among the Bundesliga’s leaders in aerial duels won, providing a physical presence that deters opposing forwards.
Orban himself is a real threat to score from set pieces with five seasons of at least three goals scored, as his aerial ability and determination translate well on the attacking end, too.
Beyond his defensive – and offensive – statistics, Orban’s legacy is tied to his role as a captain and role model. His loyalty to Leipzig and steadying influence helped shape the club’s defensive identity, making him not just a standout player but also a symbol of the club’s disciplined and heart.
CB Dayot Upamecano
Dayot Upamecano’s greatness at RB Leipzig was built on his rare combination of physical power, technical skill, and tactical intelligence, marking him as one of the most promising defenders in Europe during his tenure.
Joining Leipzig in 2017 from Red Bull Salzburg, the Frenchman quickly became a mainstay in Leipzig’s high-octane, pressing system. His unique blend of speed and strength allowed him to dominate physically, winning duels both on the ground and in the air.
But what made him truly special was his ability to read the game on and off the ball, positioning himself intelligently to break up attacks before they could develop. His quick recovery speed was a defensive asset, allowing him to effectively cover large spaces when Leipzig’s backline pushed high.
Statistically, Upamecano’s impact at Leipzig is significant. In the 2019/20 Bundesliga season, he averaged nearly 2 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, and 3.4 clearances per game, showing his balanced approach to defense.
That was his breakout season, as the current Bayern Munich star separated himself from the shadow of Ibrahima Konate, a world-class center back in his own right, to become the unquestioned gem of the Leipzig defense.
He was also adept at advancing the ball, completing over 88% of his passes that season, with many of those passes breaking opposition lines and igniting Leipzig’s attack. This ball-playing ability set him apart as a modern center-back, able to contribute to both the buildup and defensive phases with ease.
In fact, his passing was his calling card, as was his uncanny carrying ability from the center back position. It led him to become the most coveted young center back in the world and a priority transfer target for Bayern.
Upamecano’s legacy at Leipzig is defined not only by his on-field contributions but by the maturity and leadership he displayed at a young age. As Leipzig grew into a Bundesliga and Champions League contender, Upamecano’s performances were pivotal, anchoring a defense that consistently ranked among the league’s best.
His physical and technical prowess made him a symbol of Leipzig’s ambitious, forward-thinking approach, and he helped establish Leipzig’s reputation as a top destination for young, elite talent.
Upamecano’s influence extended beyond individual stats; he represented Leipzig’s aspirations and played a major role in elevating the club’s status on the European stage.
CM Naby Keita
Naby Keïta’s greatness at RB Leipzig was marked by his dynamic playmaking, exceptional work rate, and skillful dribbling, which made him one of the most complete midfielders in the Bundesliga during his time at the club.
Joining Leipzig in 2016, Keïta brought an intensity and versatility that quickly elevated the team’s midfield. Known for his ability to drive the ball forward and his tenacity in regaining possession, Keïta could turn defense into attack in seconds.
His combination of technical precision and physical tools allowed him to break through pressing defenses and dictate Leipzig’s transitions with confidence, always finding that second gear to rev up the Bundesliga side’s engine to full octane.
Keïta’s statistics underscore his influence. In the 2017/18 Bundesliga season, he contributed 6 goals and 5 assists, a significant output for a central midfielder, showcasing his impact in the attacking phase.
Additionally, he averaged nearly 3 dribbles per game—one of the highest rates among Bundesliga midfielders—illustrating his prowess in progressing the ball under pressure.
His defensive contributions were equally impressive, with Keïta averaging around 2.4 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per match, underscoring his all-around abilities. At the time he was in Leipzig, Keïta was unquestionably becoming one of the world’s elite box-to-box midfielders, which is why Liverpool came calling.
Keïta’s legacy at Leipzig is defined by his role as a game-changer, helping establish Leipzig’s reputation for fast, aggressive, and intelligent football.
His combination of skill and tenacity made him a fan favorite and left a lasting mark on Leipzig’s midfield, embodying the club’s ambitious spirit and high-energy style.
FW Christopher Nkunku
Christopher Nkunku’s greatness at RB Leipzig is defined by his technical brilliance, versatility, and consistent goal-scoring ability, which turned him into one of Europe’s most exciting talents during his time at the club.
Arriving from Paris Saint-Germain in 2019, Nkunku quickly adapted to the Bundesliga and evolved into a game-changer for Leipzig. His unique combination of agility, vision, and composure made him a multi-dimensional threat—equally adept as a creator and a scorer.
In fact, he hit it off immediately, registering 13 assists in his first campaign in Leipzig in the 2019/20 season, playing the biggest role in Timo Werner’s breakout as one of the most exciting goal-scorers in world football.
Nkunku’s ability to operate anywhere across the attacking front or midfield made him essential to Leipzig’s dynamic, flexible attacking style. His tactical intelligence and adaptability meant he could seamlessly shift between playmaker, winger, and forward, creating mismatches for defenders.
The numbers underscore Nkunku’s elite status. His best season in 2021/22 saw him score 20 goals and register 13 assists in the Bundesliga, a remarkable feat that placed him among the league’s top performers and a legitimate Ballon d’Or candidate
Nkunku averaged over 3 shots and 2 key passes per game that season, demonstrating his dual-threat nature in both scoring and setting up chances. His impressive shooting accuracy, combined with his creative flair, showcased his finishing skill, as he often scored in high-stakes moments, including Leipzig’s first trophy as DFB Pokal winners in 2022.
The 2021/22 Bundesliga Player of the Season’s underlying metrics further highlight his effectiveness: he completed nearly 2 dribbles per game and had a progressive passing rate that consistently broke down defensive lines, emphasizing his ability to unbalance opposing defenses.
Nkunku’s legacy at Leipzig is built on more than just his individual achievements; he became a cornerstone of the team’s attacking identity. As Leipzig’s primary offensive outlet, he helped the club compete at the top level in the Bundesliga and Champions League, providing a cutting edge in both domestic and European competitions.
The Frenchman’s influence on the pitch extended beyond his goal contributions; his leadership and resilience embodied the club’s ambition and high-energy ethos. Whether pressing from the front, linking play in the midfield, or finishing chances himself, he was central to Leipzig’s style and success.
His time at RB Leipzig left a lasting legacy as he symbolized the club’s ability to nurture and develop world-class talent. His commitment, consistency, and tactical versatility set a new standard for future attacking players at the club, and his contributions elevated Leipzig’s profile on the European stage.
By the end of his tenure, Nkunku was not just one of the Bundesliga’s top talents but a player whose influence on Leipzig’s attacking identity is likely to be remembered for years to come.
CB Ibrahima Konaté
Ibrahima Konaté’s greatness at RB Leipzig was marked by his exceptional athleticism, defensive intelligence, and composure on the ball. Joining Leipzig in 2017 as a teenager, Konaté quickly stood out as a towering presence in defense, combining pace, strength, and awareness to shut down some of Europe’s most dangerous attackers.
His physicality allowed him to dominate in one-on-one duels, while his quick recovery speed made him crucial in Leipzig’s high-pressing, high-line system. Konaté’s ability to read the game, anticipate passes, and intercept opposition play made him an ideal center-back for Leipzig’s aggressive defensive approach.
Konaté’s statistics reflect his impact on Leipzig’s backline. During his standout 2018/19 Bundesliga season, he averaged 2.2 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, and 3.6 clearances per game, a balanced defensive output that underscored his importance. His aerial ability was another strength, as he won nearly 70% of his aerial duels, making him a constant threat in both defensive and offensive set-pieces.
A lot of people overlook how exceptional he was that season. Konaté was legitimately the best center back in the Bundesliga and one of the best in the world. But you know who didn’t overlook Konaté? Jürgen Klopp, and Liverpool were rewarded with a player who is now consistently one of the elite in the Premier League.
Konaté’s legacy at Leipzig goes beyond his numbers; his maturity and consistency at a young age made him a cornerstone of the team’s defense. Representing Leipzig’s commitment to developing top-tier talent, Konaté’s contributions were instrumental in solidifying the club’s status as a Bundesliga and Champions League competitor.
