Borussia Mönchengladbach enter the international break as the Bundesliga’s only pointless side. Four league matches have produced a 6-16 goal record, bottom place and a rapid coaching change, with Alexander Blessin now preparing the team for the derby against 1. FC Köln.
A defence in need of order
Chief executive Stefan Stegemann said the start had fallen well below expectations, despite the club completing its DFB Cup assignment successfully.
- Gladbach lost all four Bundesliga fixtures and have conceded 16 goals.
- A 3-1 home lead against Elversberg was allowed to slip.
- Stegemann also described the performance in Freiburg as unacceptable.
- In the latest 4-3 defeat to Mainz, he saw a side trying to improve but still affected by uncertainty from earlier matches.
Stegemann identified defensive reliability as the central issue. The club expect Blessin to bring structure quickly after the change in the dugout. His reputation for organising teams and setting clear frameworks was a major factor in the appointment, Stegemann said.
The CEO placed responsibility on the squad as well. He said hard work, discipline and full commitment must now be matched by results.
A large summer reset
The difficult opening did not entirely surprise the club. Gladbach made broad changes around the first team during the summer, recording 52 personnel movements across the squad and staff.
Stegemann said such turnover requires patience before new roles and relationships function properly, both individually and collectively. He nevertheless maintained that the rebuild was required.
- The previous group needed fresh stimulus, Stegemann said.
- Gladbach remain in a demanding financial position, although he sees progress being made step by step.
- The summer overhaul was also intended to reduce the wage bill.
Young players central to the plan
Sport director Rouven Schröder’s transfer surplus has given Gladbach room to recruit players with development potential. Stegemann believes those arrivals can improve at the club and create future value.
He pointed to academy-aged players Wael Mohya, 17, and Mathieu Nguefack, 18, as examples within the club. Among the new signings, Hugo Bolin, 23, and Jan Leszczynski, 19, have impressed him so far.
That development-led model remains Gladbach’s route forward. Blessin’s immediate task is more urgent: settle the defence and give the side a platform before Köln visit after the break.
