RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann unfazed by links to Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona, and Real Madrid among others

RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann is unquestionably one of the top young coaches in the world and has recently been linked to such clubs as Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Tottenham Hotspur — not to mention the German national team.

Surely, the 33-year-old is flattered by all of the attention, right?

Think again.

“I have a contract until 2023. It would be a bit much to say that it annoys me — I know how professional football works,” Nagelsmann said (as captured by AS). “Apparently, I would’ve joined Tottenham, Real Madrid or Barcelona by now. There are great coaches at all of these clubs and they have a contract, just as I do. It is not annoying me, nor is it flattering me. It doesn’t have any relevance for me.”

Nagelsmann understands how things would be perceived if he openly spoke about jobs with other clubs.

“No matter what coaches you are talking about, whether it is Bayern or Barcelona, it would be disrespectful to talk about these clubs. It would be disrespectful, as all of those coaches are very successful and have a contract as well,” said Nagelsmann. “From my perspective, it is a topic in the media. I understand that it is interesting, primarily for the fans, so I’m not upset. Neither am I saying that the question is disrespectful. All I’m saying is, that it would be disrespectful for me to talk about these topics.”

While he understands why he’s become a hot topic, it seems like Nagelsmann is also keenly aware of the fallout that could occur if he fell into the trap of discussing the future when the present offers enough challenges to keep him busy.