Klopp Faces Early Challenge as Ouédraogo Injured

Jürgen Klopp’s first squad as Germany manager is already under strain before he’s even read out a single name.

RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouédraogo is a major doubt for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against the Netherlands, Greece and Serbia after suffering a new shoulder injury in Leipzig’s 5-0 demolition of Hamburg on Sunday, according to Foot Mercato.

The 20-year-old started the game but his afternoon ended abruptly. After a collision with Albert Grønbæk, Ouédraogo was forced off in the 35th minute, heading straight down the tunnel and leaving Leipzig’s staff fearing the worst.

The timing could hardly be more brutal. Klopp is due to announce his first Germany squad next Thursday, and Ouédraogo had been widely viewed as one of the brightest young options to freshen up the midfield.

Inside Leipzig, concern is growing that this is not just a knock. The club suspect the issue is linked to the same shoulder problem that ruled Ouédraogo out for the whole of last August.

Leipzig manager Martín Demichelis did not hide his anxiety after the game. “I think it's the same injury. Things don't look promising. We need him. He is an amazing talent, both for Germany and for our club," he said.

That word – “same” – will chill both Leipzig and the German FA. Since joining Leipzig in 2024, injuries have stalked Ouédraogo’s progress. He has already spent more than 380 days on the sidelines, a staggering tally for a player of his age, and the early signs suggest he could now be facing several more weeks out.

For Leipzig, it’s another disruption to a key piece of their long-term project. For Klopp, just as he prepares to put his stamp on the national team, it may mean ripping up part of his first draft.