Aston Villa youngster Kosta Nedeljković says he is “giving it my all” as he battles back from a knee injury and fights to secure his long-term future at RB Leipzig.
The 19-year-old right-back joined Leipzig on loan in July after an initial six-month stint in Germany earlier this year, but his second spell has been marred by injury setbacks and limited playing time. Nedeljković has featured for just 11 minutes across two matches this season and last appeared on 20 September before being sidelined with a knee problem.
According to Bild, Leipzig’s hierarchy — led by sporting director Marcel Schäfer — have doubts about triggering the €10 million purchase option agreed with Villa unless the Serbian full-back returns to regular action soon.
Back in training and ready to return
The good news for both clubs is that Nedeljković has now returned to full training and hopes to be available after the international break. Speaking to Bild, he described the physical and mental challenges of his recovery:
“I took a knock at the start of the season. Despite the problems, I kept training and tried to ignore the pain. Sometimes you have to be smart, listen to your body, and not overexert yourself, even though you always want to give 100%,” he said.
The defender admitted that being sidelined affected his confidence but emphasised his determination to turn things around:
“It wasn’t easy mentally. Especially having to train alone after the injury and missing four or five games. But I’m giving it my all — that’s my mentality. I’m not the type to settle down on the bench. I talk to the coach every day, he trusts me, and I hope I get my chance in the next few months.”
Leipzig’s decision pending
Leipzig’s coaches reportedly appreciate Nedeljković’s attitude and work rate, but the Bundesliga side are unlikely to make a final decision on his purchase clause until later in the season. Regular minutes between now and May will be crucial if he’s to convince the club to make his move permanent.
| Player Profile (2025/26) | Kosta Nedeljković |
|---|---|
| Age | 19 |
| Position | Right-back |
| Parent Club | Aston Villa |
| Loan Club | RB Leipzig |
| Purchase Option | €10 million |
| Appearances (2025/26) | 2 |
| Minutes Played | 11 |
source: Bild / Transfermarkt – 12 November 2025
Our View: A key period for development
In our view, Nedeljković’s mindset and determination bode well for his future, whether in Germany or back at Aston Villa. Unai Emery’s staff are monitoring his progress closely and still believe the teenager has the tools to develop into a Premier League-quality full-back.
For Leipzig, the next few months will be decisive — if he can stay fit and force his way into the rotation, the €10m clause could represent real value. The next step is consistency, and Nedeljković seems fully aware of what’s at stake.
Key Insights
- Nedeljković has returned to training after missing over a month with a knee injury.
- Leipzig hold a €10m option to buy from Aston Villa but are undecided.
- The Serbian defender has played only 11 minutes this season.
- His attitude and communication with the coach have impressed Leipzig staff.
- The next few months will determine whether Leipzig trigger the clause.
What’s Next
Nedeljković hopes to feature in Leipzig’s squad when Bundesliga action resumes later this month. His immediate goal is to regain fitness, earn game time, and prove he belongs at the top level — either in Leipzig or back under Emery’s watchful eye at Villa Park.
👉 Villa fans — would you like to see Nedeljković return next season or continue developing in Germany?
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