Mathieu Nguefack nears Borussia Monchengladbach start after impressive debut

Mathieu Nguefack could be in line for an early Bundesliga start after impressing in his debut for Borussia Monchengladbach.

The 18-year-old academy product came off the bench in the 64th minute during the 3-0 defeat to RB Leipzig and delivered a composed performance in central midfield.

Head coach Eugen Polanski praised the teenager’s contribution, insisting his inclusion was merit-based rather than a gesture of youth development. “His appearance was not a gift, but earned through performance. We wanted to gain more stability with him, and he managed that well,” Polanski said.

Nguefack’s emergence comes at a crucial time for Gladbach, who face a midfield shortage following Enzo Leopold’s serious knee injury. The summer signing is expected to miss several months after suffering a cruciate ligament rupture, while Jens Castrop remains unavailable post-shoulder surgery. Zento Uno has returned to training but is not yet considered ready for selection.

With options limited, Nguefack is now a genuine contender to start alongside Philipp Sander in Saturday’s home fixture against SV 07 Elversberg. Whether Polanski trusts the youngster from the outset or continues to use him as an impact substitute will become clear on matchday.