Gladbach talent Iaia Manco Danfa impresses coach Eugen Polanski during pre-season

Borussia Monchengladbach forward Iaia Manco Danfa is making the most of summer pre-season to push himself into the thoughts of head coach Eugen Polanski.

As is often the case at this time of year, several academy players are being given a chance with the first team, and the 19-year-old has been one of the standout performers so far.

According to Rheinische Post, Danfa has left a particularly strong impression on Polanski with his energy, movement and work ethic in training and matches.

His most eye-catching display came in a friendly against Wuppertaler SV, where Gladbach ran out 6-0 winners. Danfa got himself on the scoresheet and repeatedly threatened with sharp attacking actions, showing composure in front of goal and a willingness to press from the front. Polanski praised him afterwards, describing Iaia as “a brutally exciting player” and noting that he is seizing his chance at a time when Tim Kleindienst is not yet at 100 percent.

Whether Danfa can maintain this level over the coming weeks and earn a permanent place in the senior squad remains to be seen. For now, though, his performances are earning him valuable credit and keep him firmly in the spotlight as Gladbach shape their squad for the new Bundesliga campaign.