From the Billy Goats to the Red Bulls: A closer look at new RB Leipzig defender Max Finkgräfe
After making his first-team debut in the 2023/24 season for Cologne, Max Finkgräfe has been quick to gain admirers with his performances from left-back. RB Leipzig were one of many to notice his talents, and he'll now join up with Die Roten Bullen ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Data correct as of 3 July 2025
Age: 21 (born 27 March 2004)
Club: RB Leipzig
Position: Left-back
Country: Germany (two U20 caps)
Key stats
Leipzig and Cologne aren‘t the only Bundesliga clubs that Finkgräfe has been on the books of so far in his young career, having also spent time in the academies of Borussia Dortmund and Borussia Mönchengladbach.
It was at the Billy Goats’ academy that the young left-back found a home, however, developing into a first class full-back at the club following a short spell with sixth-tier SG Unterrath’s U17 side.
He joined Cologne in 2021, climbing through their ranks before making his Bundesliga debut, against former side Dortmund no less, in the 2023/24 campaign.
The 21-year-old then went on to make 24 appearances that season, 18 of which were starts, whilst also still turning out for the club’s reserve side in the Regionalliga West.
Having established his place in the first-team squad ahead of the 2024/25 Bundesliga 2 season, the 21-year-old would have hoped to build on those numbers, however, injury limited him to 14 appearances in the club’s title-winning campaign.
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Plays a bit like: Raphaël Guerreiro
Although Finkgräfe towers above the Bayern Munich man at 6’0” (1.83m), both are quick, agile and have a sweet left-foot. Their energy down the left-flank, and the comfort with which they can come inside, is a huge plus to their respective teams.
Did you know?
During his time in Dortmund’s Academy, Finkgräfe played alongside current Eintracht Frankfurt stars Nnamdi Collins and Ansgar Knauff, as well as Youssoufa Moukoko.
What they’re saying
"I'm very happy that my future lies in Leipzig. The club is known for its good work with young players so the decision wasn't difficult for me when I heard about RBL's interest." - Finkgräfe's first words as a Leipzig player
"We are delighted that Max has chosen RB Leipzig. He is a very talented and versatile left-back, who particularly impresses with his athleticism and dynamism. With his fighting spirit and will to win, he will enrich our team. - Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer
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