Schäfer’s longer statement struck a careful balance between acknowledging criticism and rejecting panic.
“Somos muito ambiciosos e críticos conosco mesmos. Ao mesmo tempo, permanecemos calmos, focados e unidos como clube,” he said.
The sporting director reportedly insisted that the message applied across the organisation, from staff and players to the coaching team. That unity will now be tested by the results on the pitch, where a heavy European defeat has intensified doubts over the project.
The club’s argument is that Demichelis has inherited a squad still in transition. Schäfer pointed to summer changes, players adapting to new surroundings and a series of injury problems, while noting that important members of the squad are returning.
“Um time recém-montado precisa de tempo para se encontrar e desenvolver rotinas. Essa é a realidade,” Schäfer added.
That is a familiar defence for a new manager, but it only carries weight if performances begin to improve. Demichelis reportedly enjoyed an encouraging start after replacing Ole Werner, before Leipzig’s momentum faded and the team slipped into a difficult run.
Public support can buy a coach time, but it cannot remove the pressure indefinitely. Leipzig’s ambitions demand progress, particularly after a setback as damaging as the defeat by Como.
The next Bundesliga fixture will offer Demichelis an immediate chance to answer his critics. If the response is strong, the club’s patience may look justified; if not, its public backing could quickly become a final warning rather than a long-term guarantee.