Martin Demichelis Targets Manchester City Upset as RB Leipzig Prepare for Champions League Reunion

Posted : 03 November 2026

RB Leipzig manager Martin Demichelis is preparing for an emotional reunion with former club Manchester City as the German side welcome the Premier League giants in Wednesday's Champions League encounter.

The Argentine spent three seasons at City between 2013 and 2016, winning the Premier League title in the 2013-14 campaign and lifting two League Cup trophies. He also enjoyed considerable success at Bayern Munich, collecting four league titles during his playing career.

Now 45, Demichelis is focused on establishing himself as a successful manager and bringing silverware to Leipzig. His appointment was backed by former Red Bull executive Jurgen Klopp, although the decision to replace popular coach Ole Werner generated controversy among supporters.

Demichelis initially experienced difficulties after taking charge, including a heavy Champions League defeat against Como and a 6-1 loss to Bayern Munich. However, Leipzig have responded positively, recording three consecutive victories to improve their domestic position.

Despite their encouraging Bundesliga form, Leipzig have struggled in Europe. The 2020 Champions League semi-finalists have collected just one victory from their opening three league-phase matches and sit 29th in the 36-team standings. They will therefore be eager to secure a valuable result against a familiar opponent.

Demichelis has developed his coaching philosophy under several influential figures in football, including Louis van Gaal, Manuel Pellegrini, Diego Simeone and Diego Maradona. His competitive personality has already made an impression on his Leipzig players.

Defender Maxime Esteve believes the Argentine has introduced a strong winning mentality at the club. He highlighted Demichelis's intensity during training sessions, explaining that the coach demands high standards, pays attention to minor details and hates losing, even in practice matches.

Esteve also compared Demichelis with Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany, whom he previously worked with at Burnley. According to the French defender, both former Manchester City players share similar characteristics, particularly their energy, professionalism and determination to maintain high standards.

Looking ahead to Wednesday's encounter, Esteve identified Erling Haaland as City's biggest attacking threat. Having previously faced the Norwegian in the Premier League, he praised his physical strength, aerial ability and speed, describing him as the best striker in the world.

Although Leipzig face a difficult challenge, Esteve believes competing against elite players is essential for the team's development. Demichelis will also be eager to demonstrate his progress as a manager by overcoming the club where he enjoyed an important period of his playing career.

Martin Demichelis Targets Manchester City Upset as RB Leipzig Prepare for Champions League Reunion

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