Timo Werner in a 'dangerous situation' after snubbing MLS offer as Tottenham flop remains frozen out at RB Leipzig

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.

Speaking on Sport1, 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."

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."

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.