Leipzig, Germany – Brajan Gruda has rejoined RB Leipzig on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion, a move that the 21-year-old hopes will solidify his chances of representing Germany at this summer’s World Cup. The loan, finalized on , sees Gruda return to the Bundesliga after a stint in the English Premier League.
Brighton agreed to the loan transfer as Gruda seeks consistent playing time, something not guaranteed with the Seagulls. The club confirmed the move, stating their desire for the young playmaker to gain regular game experience. Gruda will wear the number 10 shirt for Leipzig, a clear indication of the faith the club has in his abilities.
The decision to bring Gruda to Leipzig wasn’t a new one, according to RB Leipzig’s managing director for sport, Marcel Schäfer. “When the opportunity arose to bring Brajan on loan, we were immediately enthusiastic,” Schäfer said. “We’ve had him on our radar for several years and would have liked to bring him to Leipzig in 2024. Even after that, contact was never broken. So we’re all the happier now, even if it’s initially a loan. We see Brajan playing in the number eight and 10 roles, where he gives us even more options.”
Gruda himself expressed his determination to join Leipzig, highlighting the club’s style of play as a key factor in his decision. “I was determined to join Leipzig as soon as it became clear that a winter transfer was possible for me,” Gruda stated. “Leipzig is not only an absolute top club in Germany, but their style of play also suits me perfectly. There has been regular contact between Leipzig and me in the past. This gives me a good feeling and shows that the club and the management are convinced of my abilities and really want me on the team.”
The loan move comes at a crucial time for Gruda, who is aiming to earn a spot in the German national team for the upcoming World Cup. While he received a call-up to the senior team in for a friendly against Ukraine, he did not feature in the match. Gruda understands that consistent performance will be key to achieving his international ambitions. “Of course I want to go to the World Cup, but the performance has to be right,” he said.
Gruda’s path to Leipzig involved a lengthy journey on transfer deadline day. He traveled over 1,000 kilometers by car to complete the move, demonstrating his commitment to the opportunity. “It all happened very quickly and a friend was with me. I knew I needed a few things for six months,” Gruda explained. “So fill up the car and go.”
Prior to joining Brighton in 2024, Gruda came through the youth system at Mainz, making 31 senior appearances and scoring four goals. He featured in 45 matches for Brighton across all competitions, also finding the net four times. Leipzig will be hoping he can replicate that form and add creativity to their midfield.
The timing of Gruda’s arrival is particularly relevant given the absence of Assan Ouédraogo due to injury. Ouédraogo’s own rapid ascent into the German national team setup serves as a reminder of how quickly opportunities can arise. He made his debut in November, scoring against Slovakia, and was likely to feature in upcoming international matches before his knee injury.
Gruda is already in top shape and is prepared to feature in Leipzig’s upcoming match against 1. FC Köln on . “I want as much playing time as possible for myself and to help the team,” he said.
Beyond his on-field ambitions, Gruda has already garnered recognition from some of the biggest names in football. In October of last year, Lionel Messi included Gruda on a list of the world’s greatest young talents as part of a sponsorship campaign. Gruda described the recognition from Messi, a player he idolized growing up, as an “honor.” He also revealed that Thomas Müller once requested to swap jerseys with him after a match between Mainz and Bayern Munich, proudly displaying the jersey on Instagram.
Brighton have now sent 14 players out on loan this season, signaling a willingness to allow young talent to develop through regular game time elsewhere. The loan deal with Leipzig represents a strategic move for both clubs, providing Gruda with a platform to showcase his abilities and potentially earn a place in Germany’s World Cup squad, while bolstering Leipzig’s squad for their pursuit of a top-four finish in the Bundesliga.
