As RB Leipzig prepare to wrap up their current campaign with a trip to SC Freiburg on Saturday, all eyes are already turning to what lies ahead. Head coach Ole Werner, fresh off an impressive debut season that silenced critics and secured his future at the club, has laid out his vision for the next chapter.

In a recent interview with Bundesliga, Werner was asked about the challenges awaiting his side, particularly with Champions League football back on the horizon. "Our objective is to perform at this level with a different rhythm," he explained. "It's a challenging objective because the team is still going through a development stage. We'll test ourselves against Europe's best, while trying to challenge for a Champions League spot in the Bundesliga."

Last season marked the first time Leipzig failed to qualify for European competition since their promotion to the top flight—a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in modern football. Despite facing scrutiny at various points during the season, Werner navigated the pressure and ultimately met expectations, earning the nod to lead the squad into the 2026/27 campaign. The 38-year-old tactician, however, remains measured in his ambitions.

"I think the first step for us is to have a similarly solid season when competing in three competitions," Werner said. "We always set the highest objectives, and you always strive for more. But Bayern were a step ahead of the league this year. It's important that we continue our development. We will look primarily at ourselves and not at the competition."

For a club that has made a name for itself through rapid growth and bold ambition, Werner's focus on steady progress over flashy promises feels like a mature next step. Whether that translates into silverware or simply a deeper run in Europe, one thing is clear: Leipzig are building for the long haul, and fans can expect the same intensity and drive that have defined this club's rise.