Ansgar Knauff pushes for Eintracht Frankfurt starting role

Ansgar Knauff has emerged as a serious contender for a starting place at Eintracht Frankfurt after making a strong return from injury.

The 24-year-old wing-back is now fully fit and impressed during Frankfurt’s 4-0 friendly victory over Eintracht Braunschweig during the international break, scoring one of the goals.

“I’m pleased that Knauff is heating up the competition for that position again. He played very well against Braunschweig, too. He’s back, and he’s fit,” Frankfurt coach Adi Hütter said.

Knauff had already made an encouraging return before the international break, playing around 30 minutes against Freiburg after recovering from a thigh injury. His performances have now put him in contention to start against RB Leipzig on Saturday.

However, he faces competition from Elias Baum, who has established himself as Hütter’s preferred option on the right side.

“Naturally, Baum doesn’t want to let anyone take this spot away from him,” Hütter said.

Knauff has made two Bundesliga appearances this season, totaling 56 minutes, and is yet to score or assist in the competition.

With Frankfurt expected to use a back three against Leipzig, the battle between Knauff and Baum could determine who starts on the right flank.