"It feels amazing" – Gruda reflects on winning goal after injury layoff

Brajan Gruda returned to action after recovering from an abdominal injury and delivered an impressive performance in RB Leipzig's Champions League match against PSV at the Red Bull Arena on Tuesday night. The attacking midfielder scored the only goal of the game, securing a 1-0 victory for Leipzig.

Gruda expressed his excitement about his return, stating, "I think it feels great, to be honest. I was injured, and now I’m back and able to play from the start. It feels amazing, especially with the goal and the three points." The 22-year-old also reflected on the team's performance, acknowledging the initial struggles but praising their improved play in the second half.

He said, "To be honest, the opening minutes were difficult for me and the team. We struggled to get into the game, made too many mistakes and weren’t 100% defensively. But later, especially in the second half, we played much better in my opinion. If we start games the way we finished this one, we can score many more goals."

RB Leipzig coach Martin Demichelis was thrilled to see Gruda make an immediate impact upon his return. "He is a special guy, funny and smart. I’m so happy for him," Demichelis said. "I’ve been able to work closely with him over the past few weeks – first through his rib injury, then his abdominal injury. He wasn’t able to start [in the Bundesliga match] against Frankfurt, but today we made the decision in his favour. That’s exactly what I need as a coach. I’m so proud of the squad."