Christoph Baumgartner Praises Young Talent Xavi Simons as RB Leipzig Eyes European Return

RB Leipzig's leading scorer, Christoph Baumgartner, expressed his admiration for match-winner Xavi Simons following their recent Bundesliga victory against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Simons' decisive goal, his eleventh in the league this season, significantly bolstered Leipzig's efforts to secure Champions League football for the upcoming season.

Following a season where RB Leipzig failed to qualify for any European competition for the first time in their brief top-flight history, the club underwent a substantial squad transformation over the summer. The highly promising Simons, at just 19 years old, has emerged as the most impactful acquisition of what RB supporters have dubbed "the restart."

Baumgartner, who remained with Leipzig despite numerous offers from other clubs last summer, continues to be a standout performer among the existing players. The 26-year-old Austrian international has contributed 12 league goals and 9 assists for the third-placed German club.

When asked about the "healthy statistical competition" with Simons, Baumgartner responded by emphasizing his team-first mentality.

Christoph Baumgartner on Xavi Simons

"I really don’t care," Baumgartner stated in his interview. "But I’m not going to cry if I score a goal either. I just want us back up there where we belong [in the top four of the Bundesliga table]."

"He’s an exceptional player with world-class potential," Baumgartner added, having previously lauded his teammate. "We’ve seen that often enough. He consistently manages to deliver at a high level, which is truly impressive for his young age."

Baumgartner Confident of European Return

"It’s crunch time and everyone is aware of that," Baumgartner said regarding Leipzig's pursuit of European qualification. "I notice that in training, too. I never doubted that we could make it into the Champions League. When key players leave, new players have to step up and fill the role."

"Incredibly talented young players keep coming through," Baumgartner continued. "I’ve always known what we’re capable of. Now we’re managing to bring it out. We just need to focus on getting a few more points."