On the second matchday of the 2024/25 Bundesliga season, VfL Bochum welcomes Borussia Mönchengladbach to the first home game of the season at the Ruhrstadion. After a turbulent season, Borussia strengthened its team in the summer with some big names, including the relegation hero of the boys from Castroper Straße, Kevin Stöger. We find out what the situation and the mood around Borussia Park are like. In conversation with Jonas from schwarzweissgruen.de
What is the mood around Borussia Park at the moment?
After the confident advancement in the cup and the unfortunate 2:3 defeat in the Bundesliga opener against the German champions from Leverkusen, the mood is positive overall. This is mainly due to the fact that the team was able to show an improvement in performance compared to the previous season.
Is the coach (still) under pressure or do people trust Seoane?
Gerardo Seoane is under pressure, even if the team also has a responsibility. It is probably clear to everyone that things cannot continue as they did last season. In this respect, the coach is under constant observation, but you have to trust him and let him work, because he has the backing of the club’s committees.
Which players form coach Seoane’s axis this season?
Jonas Omlin, Julian Weigl and Tim Kleindienst will probably form a solid axis. Omlin as captain, Weigl as vice-captain and Kleindienst, who will play a central role in attack. Of course, other names could be mentioned, but it is very likely that these three will have the most appearances this season.
Which goalkeeper would you trust more? Omlin or Nicolas? Is Nicolas’s departure (on loan) still an option?
It is a close head-to-head race, with Jonas Omlin slightly ahead of Moritz Nicolas. This competition can only be beneficial for the training work.
What transfer strategy is being pursued at Nordpark: develop more foals or sign ready-made Bundesliga players?
With Roland Virkus as the sports director, Borussia has decided to follow the “Borussia way”. Even if it was unclear for a long time what this meant, the club wants to train top talents and its own young players, develop them further and then sell them at a profit. This summer’s transfer window was mainly focused on characters, as the team lacked a certain level of leadership. This will allow the young players to concentrate more on themselves.
Which Gladbach player other than Koné could leave Gladbach?
Most recently, Ko Itakura was under discussion at PSV Eindhoven. A loan deal could still make sense for Grant-Leon Ranos.
How is the involvement of Flo Neuhaus (and Chris Kramer) in the Baller League viewed?
Basically, football players can do whatever they want in their free time – it just shouldn’t get out of hand. But everyone involved should also be aware that such commitment will be viewed more critically in difficult times, both personally and for the club. The club has certainly also sought out one or two discussions to sensitize them.
How much does the fans already enjoy Kevin Stöger’s footballing class?
In addition to his impressive pass before the 2-2 home match against Leverkusen, I was able to see him up close in a friendly match. It is remarkable how fine his passing game is. He reminds us a bit of Juan Arango, who also had a strong left foot and was a weapon on set pieces.
Is Kevin Stöger finally a national player because he now plays for a club with higher prestige?
That’s a good question! I saw him play a few times last season and was surprised that he had never played for Austria. That was long overdue, regardless of the club he was with.
Can Tim Kleindienst be expected to achieve a similar rate as in Heidenheim?
Tim Kleindienst has already proven it in the test matches and in his first appearance in front of a home crowd: he has qualities that make him a little “Haaland”. This drive to the goal, this strength of character, this mentality of chasing after every ball. I would be surprised if he scored fewer goals for Borussia.
Do you believe in a Bernardo transfer or has Gladbach already set its sights on other transfer targets (e.g. Wöber)?
I would have liked to have seen him in my Borussia jersey, but they will probably have decided on another candidate. I am answering at a time when the transfer window is almost over, so let’s see what happens.
Which Gladbach player could soon be called up by the national coach?
If Rocco Reitz can take another step forward this season, he will be called up by Julian Nagelsmann.
Isn’t a stadium in the middle of the field a bit inconvenient on match day (or do you get used to it)?
In 2004, Borussia Park was surrounded by construction sites. In the meantime, an environment has developed around the stadium that is also inviting to linger outside of match days. There are cafes, restaurants, the opportunity to cycle or go for a walk in the surrounding area. But of course it is not comparable to stadiums that are in the middle of the city. I was able to experience the Bökelberg, and it had a very special flair.
How do you see VfL positioned for this season? Will it be a nervous wait until the end?
I don’t want to be nervous until the end, but the main goal will probably be to collect 35-40 points as quickly as possible and then maybe aim for the single digits. Anything else is unrealistic.
And what do you think of VfL Bochum?
I hope that Bochum stays in the league so that I can continue to have the opportunity to visit this wonderful stadium.
Thank you for the interview!
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