Borussia Mönchengladbach has formally appointed interim coach Eugen Polanski to a permanent contract, extending his tenure until 2028, the club announced Tuesday. The decision, lauded by Head of Sports Rouven Schröder as the result of “open, constructive and appreciative discussions” signals a potential shift in the club’s approach to leadership following a period of instability.
Polanski, who assumed control of the first team following a turbulent start to the Bundesliga season, has overseen a noticeable stabilization of the team’s performance. Previously managing the club’s U23 squad, his appointment bypasses the usual search for a high-profile, externally sourced replacement, raising questions about the perceived limitations within Gladbach’s managerial pool.
While Schröder emphasized Polanski’s “content-related and character-based qualities” critics suggest the move reflects a risk-averse strategy, prioritizing continuity over potentially transformative leadership. The team currently sits in 12th place, indicative of an ongoing struggle for consistent success despite the recent improvement.
The decision to commit to Polanski long-term represents a significant statement of faith from the club hierarchy. Whether this faith is rewarded with sustained progress and a return to European contention remains to be seen, but it underscores a clear desire to build a future rooted in internal development and a less disruptive leadership structure, potentially at the expense of bolder, externally driven aspirations. The gamble lies in whether Polanski’s skillset and proven capabilities can elevate Gladbach beyond its current plateau and address underlying structural issues hindering consistent competitiveness.