Official: Amadou Haidara leaves RB Leipzig

RB Leipzig have confirmed the departure of Amadou Haidara.

Amadou Haidara has departed RB Leipzig after seven years at the Bundesliga club.

As RB Leipzig confirmed on Tuesday, the 27-year-old midfielder will join Ligue 1 leaders RC Lens on January 1.

“Doudou was a hugely important player for RB Leipzig over many years. On the pitch, he gave our midfield structure with his football intelligence and his strength in the tackle. At the same time, he earned great respect away from the pitch and was an important player in the dressing room, especially for our young, French-speaking players,” said RB Leipzig managing director for sport Marcel Schäfer.

“Over the past six months, which were not easy for him personally, he once again showed his impeccable character. He never let his standards drop and always conducted himself in an exemplary manner. We therefore wish him every success, both on and off the pitch, at the Africa Cup of Nations and in the next step of his career with RC Lens.”

Haidara has made a total of 222 appearances for Leipzig, but hasn’t featured a single time this season.

Commenting on his move to France, he said:

“I’m incredibly grateful for this intense, successful and emotional time in Leipzig. From my very first day, I felt the great appreciation of the club and the fans – and I want to thank them sincerely for that.

“RB Leipzig has become a second family to me. The two cup wins and the shared successes with our fans will always stay with me. It’s been a wonderful journey – but now the time has come to begin a new chapter in my career.”