Christopher Nkunku returns to RB Leipzig squad ahead of Schalke clash

RB Leipzig have received a boost ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga encounter against Schalke 04, with Christopher Nkunku returning to the matchday squad after recovering from adductor problems.

The 28-year-old forward has missed Leipzig’s recent fixtures against Elversberg and Rot-Weiss Essen but has now resumed training with his teammates.

Head coach Martín Demichelis confirmed Nkunku’s availability during Friday’s press conference, revealing that the Frenchman had completed his first team training session after nine days away.

“Christopher trained today and he is in the squad,” Demichelis confirmed.

However, the Leipzig manager ruled out an immediate return to the starting lineup, insisting that players need sufficient time training with the group before being considered for a starting role.

“I am not a fan of players who haven’t trained with the team every day and then start the match,” he explained.

Nkunku is therefore expected to begin Saturday’s encounter on the bench, with Demichelis considering him alongside Christoph Baumgartner as potential attacking options from the sidelines.

“Probably we will have two players on the bench tomorrow who bring a lot,” the coach added.

The French forward’s return provides Leipzig with another attacking option as they prepare for a difficult away fixture against Schalke.

Although his exact playing time remains uncertain, his availability represents an encouraging development for Demichelis, who will hope to gradually reintegrate the experienced attacker into his starting plans.

Nkunku will now look to make a positive contribution if called upon as Leipzig pursue their first away points of the Bundesliga season.