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Leipzig, January 29, 2026 – Soccer star Timo Werner is leaving RB Leipzig after seven and a half years with teh club, confirming reports that he’s terminating his contract too join the San José Earthquakes of Major League Soccer. The move, announced Wednesday, marks a new chapter for the 29-year-old forward, though his immediate future includes staying in Germany for a few weeks to prepare for a important personal event.
A Family Matter Delays MLS Debut
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The transition won’t be immediate. Werner will remain in Leipzig for three weeks to maintain his fitness with RB, a decision driven by the impending arrival of his first child with wife Paula, due in Germany at the end of February. Paula, originally from Dresden, and Werner married in Mallorca last June, after dating as 2016.
Imago Reason
San José is already gearing up for Werner’s arrival. Performance tests began on January 10th, and a test match against Monterey Bay is scheduled for next Saturday. The Earthquakes kick off their MLS season on February 22nd at 4:30 a.m.German time with a home game against Sporting kansas City,where Werner is expected to join the team. He will initially travel to the U.S. without his family.
Designated Player status and Financial Details
The Earthquakes will welcome Werner as a “designated player,” meaning his salary will exceed the league’s salary cap. RB Leipzig is expected to provide Werner with a severance payment of approximately 2.5 million euros for the remaining four months of his contract.
Werner first joined Leipzig from VfB Stuttgart in 2016, quickly becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer with 113 goals and earning a spot on the national team. He moved to Chelsea FC in London in 2020, but returned to RB leipzig two years later after limited playing time.After loan spells with Tottenham Hotspur, he returned to RB Leipzig last summer for the final time.
Did you know? – Timo Werner is RB Leipzig’s all-time leading scorer with 113 goals across all competitions. He holds a significant place in the club’s history.
Why Did Timo Werner Leave RB Leipzig?
Timo Werner, 29, decided to leave RB Leipzig to pursue a new challenge in Major League Soccer with the San José Earthquakes. While a consistent performer for Leipzig, the move offers a fresh start and a potentially different role in his career. Reports suggest he sought a change of scenery and a new surroundings for both his professional and personal life, especially as he and his wife prepare for their first child.
Pro tip – Designated player status in MLS allows teams to sign players whose salaries exceed the maximum salary cap, attracting international talent like Werner.
Who is Involved in the Transfer?
The key players in this transfer are Timo Werner, RB Leipzig, the San José Earthquakes, and Werner’s wife, Paula. Werner is the athlete making the move. RB Leipzig is the club releasing him from his contract. The
