FC Red Bull Salzburg brought back numerous players on July 8, 2026, to kick off pre‑season training for the second half of the Austrian Bundesliga. Coach Matthias Jaissle highlighted that the return of key figures like Nicolas Seiwald and Mats Møller Dæhli will increase tactical flexibility. The side currently sits second in the league with 37 points after 22 matches.

Which players are returning?

Among the returnees are Nicolas Seiwald, who comes back from a loan at RB Leipzig, and Mats Møller Dæhli, rejoining after a season in Copenhagen. Andreas Ulmer, a long‑time servant since 2015, has recovered from injury and is back in the squad. The comeback of Benjamin Šeško, fit after a short break, further boosts the attack. All mentioned players were first seen together in training on July 9, 2026.

Why does this matter for the title race?

The club sits just one point behind leaders Sturm Graz and has already scored 42 goals while conceding 26 – a +16 goal difference. The return of experienced players should tighten the defence and broaden attacking options, helping to close the narrow gap. Jaissle said integrating the returnees is essential to keep pressure on rivals. The team has won four of its last five matches, raising confidence.

What does the upcoming training look like?

In the coming weeks, the coaching staff plans intensive sessions at the Red Bull training complex, followed by friendlies against FC Liefering’s U21 side. A test match against Austrian top‑flight side LASK on July 15, 2026, will serve as the first benchmark for the new lineup. Extra emphasis will be placed on set‑pieces, as the return of Seiwald and Dæhli should improve free‑kick and corner quality.

What does this mean for supporters?

For fans, the return of familiar faces restores a sense of normalcy after a long off‑season. The official fan app already has over 120,000 users receiving training schedules and live updates. The club promises that the first home games in August will be sold out, signalling that stadium support will be another factor in the title chase.

FC Red Bull Salzburg therefore stays in the hunt while rivals keep the pressure on. With the returnees in the squad and a clear training plan, the team could soon close the slim gap to Sturm Graz.