RB Leipzig boss comments on Yan Diomandé’s ‘sick leave’ during Real Madrid negotiations | OneFootball

While the footballing world waits for Yan Diomandé’s Real Madrid transfer to be officially confirmed or called off, RB Leipzig personnel chief Marcel Schäfer has spoken on the 19-year-old’s supposed “sick leave” from his Bundesliga club. Diomandé still hasn’t reported to RB Leipzig’s Austrian training camp. The stated reason for the teenage talent’s absence is illness.

Reporters attempting to fish out information about the impending transfer (or the fact that Diomandé may not be sick) have found themselves disappointed. Schäfer remained supportive of his player and emphasized that Diomandé would receive what space he needed.

Marcel Schäfer’s latest comments on Yan Diomandé

“I phoned with him yesterday,” Schäfer told reporters from the sidelines of Leipzig’s training camp. “It’s not the case that we’re checking in with doctors every morning and afternoon. It’s the same with him as it is with every other player. When a player tells us they’re not feeling well and may have an infection, we first give them the benefit of the doubt.

“We’re remaining in touch in any event,” Schäfer continued. “I don’t know when he’ll feel better and be able to participate in training. One can’t train when one has an infection. We’ll just see how it goes.”

“I think it’s not exactly a state secret that several top clubs have logged their interest and the player is a bit preoccupied with that,” Schäfer responded when asked about the transfer rumors. “And there’s nothing reprehensible about that. When he arrived last year, many people were asking me who he was and why we brought him in.

“In the meantime, he did everything to help us reach our goals,” Schäfer continued. “He developed tremendously alongside the rest of the team. What we have here is just confirmation of his performance and the work of the club. That renders this a joyful topic. 

“Nothing is done until something is signed,” Schäfer concluded. “We also accord players respect and space when they need discussions with their families and agents. One thing is clear: when he does feel better, he will have to come here.”

GGFN | Peter Weis