The crisis at Borussia Mönchengladbach following a disastrous start to the season has prompted sharp analysis from Marcel Reif. The experienced commentator raised the fundamental question about coach Jan Polanski's future in a report for Bild.
What did Marcel Reif say about the Gladbach crisis?
Marcel Reif addressed the situation at the Niederrhein club on his show "Reif ist Live" this Tuesday. His assessment was damning. "Systemisch völlig daneben" (systemically completely off), was the expert's harsh verdict on the current state of affairs. He put into words what many fans fear after the first two matchdays: that it's not only individual errors but fundamental problems hampering the team. The numbers support Reif's view. Gladbach sits in 17th place in the Bundesliga with zero points from two games. The record shows two defeats, three goals scored and seven conceded.
What is the current sporting situation?
The gap to the top of the table is already significant. Six points separate Borussia from the summit, currently held by FC Augsburg. The next opportunity for a turnaround comes on Saturday, September 12, 2026, with an away match against SC Freiburg. The opponent from Breisgau is currently in second place, posing a formidable challenge. The injury list complicates the task further. Daiki Hashioka, Enzo Leopold, Jens Castrop and Yukhym Konoplya are currently sidelined. All information on the squad list can be found on our squad page.
What are the team's problems under Polanski?
The two opening defeats revealed shortcomings in several areas. The defence looked disorganised, which may explain the seven goals conceded. In midfield, control of the game was often lacking, and efficiency in attack was also missing. These weaknesses on all levels fuel Reif's criticism of the "system". It's not about bad luck or individual off-days, but recurring patterns the coach has so far failed to correct. The team must quickly find a stable basic structure to avoid slipping further into a relegation battle. Borussia's complete schedule can be viewed under fixtures.
What's next for Gladbach?
All eyes are now on the clash in Freiburg. Another defeat would massively increase the pressure on Polanski and the team. The coach must find answers to the obvious tactical questions in the short time before the match. He also needs to plug the gaps left by injured players. The coming days in training will be important to regain the necessary confidence. Borussia has managed to emerge stronger from difficult phases in the past. The current table is always up to date on our standings page. The away match at SC Freiburg on September 12th is the next test.
