Gladbach kicks off Sunday with a four-way battle for the No. 10 spot in the training camp. The 12 p.m. kickoff at Training Ground 1 marks the start of preseason, where Giovanni Reyna, Shuto Machino, Kevin Stöger and Florian Neuhaus fight for the starting position.

Gladbach currently sits 12th in the Bundesliga, with 38 points from 34 games (9 wins, 11 draws, 14 losses) and a record of 42 goals scored and 53 goals conceded – 11 points behind leaders Bayern Munich.

Who are the candidates for the No. 10?

Giovanni Reyna, 23, arrived with high expectations from former manager Roland Virkus. At the World Cup he showed his potential with an outside‑foot strike against Paraguay (4‑1). He still must prove his class in camp to earn a place in the lineup.

Shuto Machino, 26, only saw a brief World Cup cameo against Brazil (1‑2). Coach Eugen Polanski, however, sees the talent of the hanging striker who delivered his best performances on the ten in Kiel. Machino will get his chance to impress.

Kevin Stöger, 32, stepped up at the end of last season and earned regular minutes. The Austrian celebrates his 33rd birthday just before the season starts – age doesn’t seem to slow him, though Polanski remains cautious.

Florian Neuhaus, 29, wants to fulfill his contract through 2027. Despite a high wage bill, he remains a top earner whose playing style Polanski generally likes. Neuhaus could reclaim his starter spot if he shines in the four‑way battle.

Why the fight for the No. 10 matters

The No. 10 role is the creative heart of Borussia’s attack. Whoever occupies it sets the tempo and chance creation. With 42 goals scored and 53 conceded, Gladbach needs more firepower to climb out of the midfield.

Polanski stresses that competition raises team quality. An intense battle in camp can boost players’ mental edge and tactical flexibility – both needed to close the gap to Bayern.

What does this mean for the upcoming season?

If Reyna takes the No. 10, Gladbach could benefit from his World Cup experience and add more offensive pressure. Machino’s speed could energize the flanks, while Stöger provides midfield stability. Neuhaus’s experience might steer the game if he assumes the lead role.

The decision will come in the next weeks as training intensifies. Fans can look forward to seeing who ultimately makes the starting eleven, while Gladbach strives to improve its league position and shrink the 11‑point gap to Bayern.