Overview
- The 28-year-old RB Leipzig defender ruptured his right Achilles on December 20, 2024, underwent surgery, then needed a further operation due to ongoing pain.
- He says he has dropped any fixed return date, prioritizing full fitness after an earlier five-month target proved unrealistic.
- Germany captain Joshua Kimmich has been messaging him roughly every two weeks with updates and encouragement, alongside support from Jonathan Tah and Leipzig staff.
- He has been exchanging rehab videos and updates with Leverkusen’s Martin Terrier, with their physiotherapists also in contact.
- He has progressed to on-pitch work in front of new coach Ole Werner and views his eventual reintegration into Leipzig’s turned-over squad as akin to a new signing.