Demichelis oversees Leipzig pre-season victory over Altglienicke

RB Leipzig concluded their pre-season preparations with a 2-1 victory over Regionalliga Northeast side VSG Altglienicke on 18 July 2026. The fixture served as the managerial debut for Martin Demichelis, who oversaw the two-time DFB-Pokal winners as they look to re-establish themselves in European competition following a missed campaign last term.

Brajan Gruda, who has joined the club permanently after a previous loan spell, opened the scoring for Leipzig. The hosts were subsequently level by Altglienicke before the interval, setting up a tense second half as the new management looked to assert control.

Johan Bakayoko restored Leipzig’s lead with an early strike in the second half. Following the goal, Demichelis implemented a significant tactical shift, changing his entire lineup for the remainder of the match. Despite the wholesale changes, Altglienicke were unable to find an equaliser, allowing Leipzig to secure the win.

New signings Maxime Estève and Rocco Rietz were present with the squad but did not feature in the contest. Their absence from the pitch suggests a managed integration into the squad as the club prepares for the rigours of the upcoming season.

Leipzig’s next fixture is a match against Eintracht Trier, which will mark Demichelis’ competitive debut. This will be followed by the club’s opening Bundesliga encounter against Borussia Mönchengladbach as they aim to capitalise on their return to the Champions League.