Leipzig winger Bakayoko benched for disciplinary breach

Johan Bakayoko has been excluded from RB Leipzig squad lists as a disciplinary sanction, according to head coach Martin Demichelis. The decision follows a prolonged period of poor form and missed opportunities since the winger joined the club.

Disciplinary action explained by coach

Demichelis stated that Bakayoko committed a minor infraction but refused to disclose details publicly. "He made a small mistake. But that stays between us. We spoke, and he trained normally on Sunday. I've already forgotten what he did. The matter is settled," the Argentinian said before Tuesday's Champions League fixture against PSV Eindhoven.

The 23-year-old had missed two Bundesliga games prior to the international break and the first match after it. Reports from Bild indicated Bakayoko arrived late for mandatory appointments in Leipzig on multiple occasions. On Monday, he reportedly used his private vehicle instead of the company car provided by the club, resulting in denial of access to the training centre courtyard.

Performance decline since €18 million move

Bakayoko transferred from PSV Eindhoven for €18 million. During his debut season, he recorded three competitive goals by October. Since then, injuries and inconsistent performance have hindered his progress. He has gone nearly twelve months without contributing a goal or assist for the Saxons.

Although Jürgen Klopp advocated for the signing while serving as Head of Global Soccer, expectations have not materialized. RB Leipzig maintains confidence in Bakayoko’s footballing abilities but expresses concern regarding his lack of focus. This disciplinary setback occurs amid broader scrutiny of the team's early-season struggles.

National team prospects stalled

Bakayoko has awaited a call-up to the Belgium national team since November 2024. Under new coach Mark van Bommel, he appears to have no immediate role even following the World Cup. He was omitted from selection for recent Nations League matches.

His career trajectory began promisingly in Eindhoven but now faces significant challenges at Leipzig. The combination of club-level disciplinary issues and international exclusion marks a low point for the player.

Team response and coaching pressure

With Bakayoko absent, RB Leipzig defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 6-0 after the international break. The victory provided momentum for Demichelis amidst reports questioning his position. Speculation about unrest within the club had circulated, with Julian Nagelsmann’s name mentioned in connection with potential replacement scenarios.

Roger Schmidt, who succeeded Klopp in his global soccer role, recently clarified on ZDF's Aktuelles Sport Studio that such rumors were unfounded. Leipzig suffered a heavy defeat against AC Milan in their opening league phase match, losing 4-1. The team seeks redemption in upcoming European fixtures.