RB Leipzig starts the new year with Xavi

RB Leipzig have started the new year with the return of Xavi Simons. The Dutch international, who injured his left ankle in the Champions League match against Liverpool FC (0:1) at the end of October, was back for the first time at Leipzig's public training session.

In addition to Xavi, international David Raum also returned. However, Loïs Openda was absent because, according to coach Marco Rose, he has to resolve "a family issue". Lutsharel Geertruida and Nicolas Seiwald had to miss out due to illness, as did long-term injuries to Benjamin Henrich, Assan Ouedraogo, Castello Lukeba and Yussuf Poulsen.

An appeal from head coach Rose

However, personnel issues were not a priority for head coach Marco Rose as he addressed the hundreds of fans. "There are so many things going on in life besides soccer that we want peace above all else. And a good time at school for our children," said Rose.

He thanked the supporters for their great support, especially "in the difficult phase recently". He also promised at the start of training to "work hard so that we win games in the second half of the season".

Leipzig, who are fourth in the table, kick off their Bundesliga campaign on January 12 with Sunday's match against Werder Bremen (3.30 pm/DAZN).