Official: RB Leipzig part ways with their manager

A third consecutive defeat in the Bundesliga has seen the Red Bulls slip out of the top 10 in the league table.

RB Leipzig have mutually parted ways with manager Jesse Marsch with immediate effect.

The German side broke the news on Sunday morning, two days after a surprise 2-1 defeat to Union Berlin on Friday left them down in 11th in the Bundesliga table.

The result was Leipzig’s third consecutive loss in the league. It left Oliver Mintzlaff, the club’s CEO, unable to contain his frustration, labeling the Union Berlin loss as a ‘catastrophic performance’.

“We have a tremendous squad that belongs to the best 3 or 4 in the league,” he added.

Now Leipzig have formally parted with Marsch, who only replaced the Bayern Munich-bound Julian Nagelsmann in the summer on a two-year deal.

#RBLeipzig and head coach Jesse #Marsch have mutually agreed to part ways. Jesse Marsch has been released from his contract with immediate effect.

⚪🔴 #WeAreLeipzig pic.twitter.com/JQYkaCUJam

— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) December 5, 2021

How did Marsch fare?

The 48-year-old American only won eight of his 21 games in charge, drawing on four occasions and losing nine times. His results have left Leipzig out of the top 10 in the Bundesliga. They’ve suffered a group-stage Champions League exit, down in third place in Group A on four points.

So Marsch, who previously coached sister club Salzburg and worked under new Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick in 2018/19, has left with immediate effect.

What did Marsch have to say?

“I am very grateful to be part of the Red Bull family and to have been given this opportunity!” read a statement from the departed Leipzig manager.

“Up until the very end, I remained hopeful that after a troubled start to the season and inconsistent performances, we would find more cohesion and stability as a group and turn our fortunes around. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to do that – after a discussion with Oliver Mintzlaff, we came to the joint decision to make a change in the coaching position.

“I keep only positive thoughts in my mind and wish for the club, the team, the staff and all the fans that RB Leipzig finds its way back to its old strengths very quickly and, given the quality in the team and in the club, I am sure that the club will achieve its goals.”

What next for Leipzig?

Assistant coach Achim Beierlorzer will replace the former New York Red Bulls boss until Leipzig find a permanent successor.

The Red Bulls return to action on Tuesday for their final Champions League match against Group A winners Manchester City. Despite already being eliminated, there is still a Europa League spot up for grabs in third. They’re currently tied with Club Brugge in the position on four points apiece.