Emil Forsberg scored in his last home game for RB Leipzig in their 3-1 triumph over TSG Hoffenheim, as his nine-year spell with the German side comes to a close ahead of his move to MLS‘ New York Red Bulls.
The versatile midfielder put his side in front with roughly 20 minutes left at Red Bull Arena after smashing home a volley past Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann. The win propelled Leipzig to third in the Bundesliga table behind Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich with 32 points from 15 gamed played.
It was a bittersweet contest for all Leipzig supporters, as the convincing victory came at a cost: one of the best players in their club’s history was staying in the Red Bull system (and going to another Red Bull Arena) but leaving the two-time German Cup winners.
Forsberg departs as the club’s all-time assists leader (69), while also scoring 71 goals (fourth-most in club history) in 300-plus appearances across competitions. He was instrumental in the team’s promotion to the Bundesliga and their semifinals run in the 2019/20 edition of the UEFA Champions League.
“I’ve had nine amazing years at RB Leipzig and been on an incredible journey. Leipzig became oursecond homeand that will not change. I’ve spent more than a quarter of my life in this amazing city and at this special club, and everything I’ve experienced here will not be forgotten,” Forsberg said in a release.
About last night 🥹❤️ pic.twitter.com/cldM2CzApT
— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) December 17, 2023
“I’d like to take the chance to say thank you to everyone at the club. Thank you to the staff, the team and, above all, our fans. They fully supported me from myfirst day here. We’ve been fantastic together over the years, even if it’s been difficult at times. There is nothing more important for me than the support and appreciation I’ve been given from the fans,” he added.
Forsberg explained that although he’s suit up in a different Red Bulls kit come next year, Leipzig will always hold a special place in his heart.
“I’ve now taken the opportunity to try something else and we’re excited to move to New York. Despite that, we’ll really miss Leipzig. I’ve always said that I love the fans, this club and this city, and that won’t change.”
The 32-year-old will play his final game for Leipzig on December 19, when the 2023/24 German Super Cup winners travel to Weser Stadium to take on Werder Bremen.
