Rasmus Kristensen has opened up about one of the most difficult periods of his football career in his book Overlevelse (“Survival”), reflecting on the mental and professional challenges he experienced during his time at Leeds United.
The Danish defender joined Leeds in 2022 after three successful seasons with Red Bull Salzburg. His first season at Elland Road, however, proved difficult as Leeds battled against relegation from the Premier League.
Kristensen made 30 appearances for Leeds United during the 2022–23 season, including 26 Premier League appearances. He scored three goals and provided one assist across all competitions.
According to a September 20 report by SportPuls, Kristensen describes experiencing significant mental pressure during this period.
“I was hit by stress, nervousness and performance anxiety. I could neither sleep nor eat,”
he is quoted as saying in the report.
The book explores a period in which the defender found himself struggling with the demands and pressure surrounding professional football.
Kristensen’s spell at Leeds ended after the 2022–23 season, with the club relegated from the Premier League. He subsequently joined AS Roma on loan for the 2023–24 season before moving to Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer of 2024.
His time in Germany marked a significant change in his career. Kristensen initially joined Frankfurt on loan from Leeds and quickly established himself as a regular in the team. He played a significant role in the club’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League , Kristensen made 43 appearances that season, he scored 6 goals and provided 3 assists in all competitions that season.
Following his successful first season, Frankfurt made the move permanent in April 2025, signing Kristensen to a contract running until 2029.
However, his stay in Frankfurt ultimately lasted only two seasons. In 2026, Kristensen informed the club of his desire to return to Denmark for family reasons, claiming he wanted to be closer to his family and the club respected his decision to return home.
Kristensen also explained the emotional significance of leaving Frankfurt. His son was born in the city, something he said would always connect him and his family to Frankfurt.
“It’s bittersweet to be leaving Eintracht – I’ve really come to love the club. But at the same time, I want to be much closer to my family again and continue my career back home,”
Kristensen said following the transfer.
Frankfurt subsequently reached an agreement with FC Midtjylland, allowing Kristensen to return to Denmark ahead of the 2026–27 season. He signed a contract with Midtjylland until the summer of 2031, returning to the club where he began his professional development.
Reflecting on his career, Kristensen has previously acknowledged that his journey has included difficult periods away from the pitch as well as sporting challenges.
“I was hit by stress, nervousness and performance anxiety. I could neither sleep nor eat,”
he said, according to the SportPuls report.
