Gladbach's World Cup participants Shuto Machino (26) and Jens Castrop (22) are back in team training after the tournament – the main focus is the immediate return to Bundesliga preparation. Currently Gladbach sits 12th in the Bundesliga with 0 points and has recorded a 0:0 goal tally.
How did the World Cup go?
Machino and Castrop represented Japan and South Korea in the USA, Canada and Mexico. Japan exited in the round of 16, while South Korea fell in the group stage. Both players returned on Tuesday after the tournament to resume the regular training schedule under coach Eugen Polanski.
What does coach Polanski say?
Polanski, 40, stresses that the World Cup experience is a huge achievement. "Playing in a World Cup is a great thing. It validates every player who makes the 26‑man squad of his country." He himself played for Poland at the 2012 home World Cup and knows the mental strain that follows a big tournament. Polanski warns about the so‑called "World Cup hole" that can affect players afterward.
Why does this matter for Gladglass?
The return of the two young attackers comes at a critical moment: Gladbach is currently fighting for points and needs fresh impetus. Polanski hopes the World Cup experiences will drive top performances in the league. A positive mindset could help close the current deficit and get the team moving forward again.
What’s next?
On Saturday at 14:00 the duo could appear in the Fohlen jersey for the first time since the World Cup in a friendly against third‑division side RW Essen. This match gives Polanski a chance to assess the players post‑World Cup and integrate them into the upcoming season. Fans can look forward to seeing whether the World Cup experience makes a difference in the upcoming Bundesliga fixtures.
How will things progress?
Polanski emphasizes that mental strength after the World Cup is essential. "You have to be strong to play for the club just two or three weeks later," he said. The two young players already wore a smile when they re‑entered training – a good sign for the weeks ahead. Gladbach now must quickly collect points to close the table gap and salvage the season.
