Esteve hoping for Champions League debut – and Haaland reunion

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · Sky Sports ↗

Maxime Esteve is eager to make his Champions League debut for RB Leipzig against Manchester City, a team he previously scored two own goals against while playing for Burnley. Esteve has been on the bench for Leipzig's first two Champions League games. He is looking forward to a reunion with Erling Haaland, whom he considers the best striker he has faced. Esteve left Burnley for Leipzig in the summer.

Esteve has reflected on his previous encounters with Haaland, noting his exceptional abilities, including power, heading, and speed. He recalls trying to stay around Haaland during their previous matches but acknowledges the difficulty in stopping him. Esteve appreciates the detail in his coaching, including video analysis of opposition strikers' speed and movement.

Esteve has adjusted well to life at Leipzig, appreciating the professionalism and demands of the club, which he compares to his experience under Vincent Kompany at Burnley. He is patient about getting playing time and is focused on integrating into the new team and league. Esteve's objective is to qualify for the Champions League every season, and he is happy to wait for his opportunity to play.