German striker Timo Werner has chosen to remain at RB Leipzig despite being informed he would be out of the squad this season. Expert Stefan Effenberg has warned that Werner is in a dangerous phase of his career, risking a loss of motivation and the drive to push himself to the limit if he continues to stay out of the team.

Werner's current situation

Werner, who returned from Tottenham after his loan move was not made permanent, has been left out of RB Leipzig’s plans for the 2025-26 season. Despite receiving several offers, including one from MLS side New York Red Bulls, he rejected them all in order to guarantee his €10 million salary from the Bundesliga club, which means he could be in danger of not receiving any playing time until the transfer window opens once again in January.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesRB Leipzig director attempted to persuade Werner to leave

Speaking on , Leipzig sporting director Marcus Scahfer explained the open and honest conversation with Werner. 

"That's why we suggested to him in the summer that if he wanted to be a regular starter and get plenty of playing time, it might be better to look elsewhere. Werner made a conscious decision to stay in Leipzig," he said. "Werner behaves very professionally; we really have a good exchange. He doesn't let himself get down."

Ex-Germany and Bayern Munich star gives advice to Werner

Effenberg, a former Bayern Munich, Wolfsburg and Germany midfielder, feels Werner should be careful as lack of playing time can lead to a lack of motivation, warning the next few months could be detrimental to his career. 

"What's not good for such players, of course, is not getting any playing time," he added. "Training is one thing, and at some point, it wears you down if you continue that into the fall. I know examples of players I've played with. Then at some point they're no longer happy and no longer have the willingness to push themselves to the limit. it is a dangerous situation for Timo right now. I'm not sure if it was the wisest decision he made there."

Getty Images SportWerner's future at Leipzig

Werner will hope to work hard in training and convince coach Ole Werner to give him a chance despite his refusal to leave the club. Leipzig, however, remain hopeful that once the transfer window reopens, the striker will agree to move on.