Official: David Wagner returns to the Bundesliga

David Wagner has been confirmed as RB Leipzig’s new head of youth development.

Having been out of work since he was sacked as Norwich City coach last year, David Wagner is now returning to Germany.

RB Leipzig have confirmed the appointment of the 53-year-old as their new head of youth development. 

He replaces Manuel Baum, who is reportedly set to take up a role at FC Augsburg.

“David Wagner has a real passion for developing young talents and has a wealth of experience as a coach in the Bundesliga and abroad,” said RB Leipzig’s managing director for sport, Marcel Schäfer.

“We’re delighted that we have been able to bring someone with such footballing expertise to this crucial role. We’ve laid important foundations in the academy over the past months. Together with David, we want first and foremost to improve the pathway to the first team in a lasting and sustainable way.”

Wagner, for his part, is eager to take on a new kind of challenge.

“Working with young talents is a real passion of mine. My time as a coach in Germany and abroad has given me valuable experience that I can now consciously apply to youth development,” he said.

“I’m really looking forward to being able to do that at RB Leipzig in this new role. The club is known and respected internationally for its work with young players. I want to do that reputation justice.”