Overview
- RB Leipzig arrive on an eight‑match unbeaten run and in second place, while Hoffenheim leans into its tongue‑in‑cheek ‘Unbeliebtico’ campaign as coach Christian Ilzer urges focus despite boardroom turbulence.
- Leipzig indicated the stunt was not coordinated but treated it with humor, club chief Johann Plenge pointed to popularity data, and a defensive reshuffle looms with Castello Lukeba likely out per reports.
- After a 1:4 loss at Manchester City, BVB coach Niko Kovac warned of a “hot” and high‑intensity trip to HSV with less than 72 hours’ rest, with late fitness calls for Julian Brandt and Niklas Süle available.
- Under pressure after one win in eight across league and cup, VfL Wolfsburg and coach Paul Simonis seek relief at Werder Bremen, with domestic media suggesting his job could be at risk without points.
- Köln’s 19‑year‑old Said El Mala returns to Gladbach for the Rhineland derby following a rapid rise and a national‑team call‑up, as regional derbies and lower‑league relegation fights spur fan mobilization and tighter matchday measures.