Martín Demichelis Appointed as New RB Leipzig Head Coach

RB Leipzig has announced the appointment of Martín Demichelis as their new head coach, ahead of the 2026/27 season. The Argentine tactician succeeds Ole Werner and brings a notable playing career and developing coaching experience to the Bundesliga club.

Demichelis, 45, joins Leipzig after recent coaching stints with River Plate in Argentina and Monterrey in Mexico. His appointment marks a significant step in his managerial career, stepping into one of Europe’s top leagues.

Background and Playing Career

Born in Justiniano Posse, Argentina, Demichelis began his professional career at River Plate before making a move to German giants Bayern Munich in 2003. During his seven-year spell in Bavaria, he became a key figure, winning four Bundesliga titles and four DFB Cups. His defensive capabilities saw him play at centre-back or in defensive midfield.

After leaving Bayern in 2010, Demichelis had spells at Malaga, Atletico Madrid, and Manchester City, where he won the English Premier League in 2014. He also represented Argentina internationally, earning 51 caps and being part of the squad that reached the 2014 FIFA World Cup final.

Coaching Journey

Demichelis transitioned into coaching following his retirement as a player in 2017. He initially served as an assistant manager at Malaga and later took on an ambassadorial role for Bayern Munich. His coaching experience progressed with the U19s at Bayern, followed by a spell in charge of the club’s reserve team.

In 2022, he was appointed head coach of River Plate, leading the club to a league title and two domestic cups in his debut season. He then moved to Mexico to manage Monterrey before his latest appointment with RB Leipzig.

Influences and Philosophy

Demichelis’s coaching philosophy appears to be shaped by his experiences playing under influential managers. He played under Manuel Pellegrini for seven years at various clubs and considers him a key influence, noting Pellegrini’s desire for dominant play. He also highlighted lessons learned from Bayern coaches Felix Magath (discipline), Ottmar Hitzfeld (team leadership), and Louis van Gaal (ball control and movement).

His preferred formation often leans towards a 4-1-4-1, adaptable to a 4-2-3-1, emphasizing a solid defensive base and controlled possession.

Connections and Notable Facts

Demichelis is known to be friends with Lionel Messi, having played alongside him for Argentina. He even played a role in helping the forward manage his diet by recommending a nutritionist. Demichelis was notably sent off for fouling Messi in a Champions League match between Manchester City and Barcelona.

Key facts

The arrival of Demichelis is a significant development for RB Leipzig, as the club looks to build on its recent successes. His background as a high-profile player and his experience coaching in South America and Mexico will be closely watched as he adapts to the demands of the Bundesliga. The club’s sporting director, Marcel Schäfer, expressed confidence in Demichelis’s ability to bring “a clear playing philosophy with high intensity and professional expertise.”

Source: Bundesliga – https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga/news/who-is-martin-demichelis-bayern-munich-reserve-team-coach-messi-argentina-15304