Caden Clark seemed destined for a second-consecutive loan spell from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, but after staying with the first team this winter, the former New York Red Bulls standout is gelling into the squad.
Clark continues his preparation with Marco Rose’s squad as the second half of the Bundesliga season pushes forward. The 19-year-old arrived from MLS during the winter break and since has been fighting to continue his development and also become an early contributor in the squad.
RB Leipzig’s quest to not only stay in the Bundesliga title and top-four races, but also advance in the UEFA Champions League remains key for the club this winter. Clark may face a tough time fighting for first team minutes over the next few months, but his strong work ethic is already impressing fellow midfielder Xaver Schlager.
“He comes from an injury, needs time, but so far he’s making a good impression,” Schlager said in an interview with RB Live. “He talked a lot during training, normally when you’re a newcomer you don’t talk that much. But he introduced himself well, settled in well, [is] a good boy who asks a lot.”
Clark scored eight goals and registered four assists in 49 combined MLS appearances, growing into a key player for the Red Bulls when healthy. In addition to his MLS development, Clark helped the U.S. Under-20 men’s national team win the Concacaf U-20 Championship last summer, clinching berths into both the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup and 2024 Summer Olympics.
RB Leipzig’s deep pool of attacking midfielders might hurt Clark’s immediate chances of playing, but will provide the Minnesota native an opportunity to learn from several seasoned professionals. For now Clark will continue training and learning this winter while RB Leipzig stays alive for a potential three trophies in all competitions.