Following the dismissal of Eugen Polanski, interim coach Jan-Moritz Lichte has been given full freedom by sporting director Rouven Schröder for Saturday's match against Mainz 05. Nothing is certain anymore, and a 'business as usual' approach to the lineup is off the table. This puts several players who were absolute regulars under Polanski at risk of losing their starting roles. Schröder transferred sole responsibility for sporting decisions in the build-up to the 5th matchday to Lichte. The interim coach can rebuild the team radically and is expected to make significant personnel changes. The team is in crisis mode after a disappointing start to the season with just four points from four matches. The next task is the away game at Mainz 05 on Saturday at 15:30. Lichte must draw the right conclusions from the performances so far. He said he wants to go into the match with a clear direction and a fresh impulse. "We all need to pull together now and show a reaction," said the 46-year-old. The squad has been training under his leadership since Wednesday. The first sessions focused primarily on analysis and tactical realignment. Players who failed to convince in recent weeks must now fear for their place in the starting eleven. This could include experienced figures from the defensive and offensive midfield. Changes in defence are also conceivable after several shaky displays. Lichte has the entire squad at his disposal and will make his decisions by Friday. Borussia currently sits in 13th place in the table. A win in Mainz would be important to keep pace with the top half. The sporting leadership around Rouven Schröder will closely monitor the development under Lichte. A permanent solution for the head coach position will only be sought after a thorough evaluation. Until then, Lichte has the chance to recommend himself for the job. His contract as an assistant coach runs until 2025. The current squad list shows the alternatives available to him. The match in Mainz kicks off an important phase before the international break. Gladbach's next three opponents after the break are SC Freiburg, VfB Stuttgart, and 1. FC Köln in the Rhineland derby. Preparation for these demanding fixtures begins with a stable performance on Saturday. The team travels to Mainz on Friday and will hold its final training session at the MEWA ARENA. Lichte will announce his lineup shortly before kick-off.