Costly Belgian joins team in the season. - Gulacsi sets a challenge for the upcoming million-man group.
Gulacsi is back in his prime! After recovering from a cruciate ligament injury, the Leipzig goalkeeper once again is playing as the top #1 and has made the most saves among all regular Bundesliga goalkeepers (79.5%).
Gulacsi muses, "It's difficult to judge. We narrowly lost to Real in the Champions League against a current finalist. However, we've qualified again and could potentially have the most successful season in the team's history in terms of points in the league. Although we've won titles for the past two years, we didn't achieve this goal this time. But considering the many players who left the team in the summer, it was still a good showing. Our goal now is to maintain the consistency of the last three months for the upcoming season."
With the upcoming a decade at Leipzig, Gulacsi's progression has generally been on an upward trajectory. The following year, will the next milestone be a championship? "I've witnessed Leverkusen's performance this season and the level of talent it requires to be champions. We've displayed the capability to compete against Leverkusen's quality in many games. We just weren't as consistent. To achieve championship status, you need a flawless season. I've been a part of this club for a while, winning the cup twice. However, it won't get any easier. Stuttgart and Leverkusen performed exceptionally well this season and Dortmund reached the Champions League final.
Are there more players like you in the future at Leipzig?
I recently spoke with Yussi about this topic. Multiple players with 300 or 400 games for a club is a phenomenon seen elsewhere. However, having four or five players playing that many games together is unique. The game has evolved into a more fast-paced sport, centered around transfers and money. Yet, we still have star players, like Xaver Schlager or Benjamin Henrichs, who can contribute significantly to the team for an extended period.
The newest team members such as Lois Openda and Benjamin Sesko possess release clauses in their contracts.
Naturally, other clubs will always be interested in our players, stemming from the quality of RB Leipzig. Yet, it's our responsibility as a team and organization to enhance our performance to the point where we can keep players with us for longer. But ultimately, the decision lies with the players, and their career objectives often differ. During my time here, there were opportunities where I could've transferred, even having a clause when I first joined. But the warm reception and importance I felt in Leipzig proved invaluable, leading me to the right decision to stay.
When does your contract end?
We've agreed that after the season, we'll discuss and make a decision about the future. As I'm getting older, planning security is vital - both professionally and personally. The 2026 World Cup will be in the United States, so I'm aiming to be in goal there. And to achieve that, I require a degree of stability for the future.
What awaits you next season?
Maarten Vandevoort will be joining us in the summer. The best player will play. That's the belief of our club and the only method for success. Competition among goalkeepers has always been intense, and it won't change in the following season. It all comes down to the performance.
Are you confident in competing with a 10 million-euro Vandevoort?
I've faced many strong opponents in Leipzig. As a 34-year-old, I've several good years left in me and believe I can contend in this competition.
Do you know much about your rival?
A talented, young keeper. But I've yet to watch any Genk games. I'm solely focusing on myself and our achievements.
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Source: symclub.org
