Players to Watch
Julien Duranville & Niklas Süle: Juju's development has been complicated. At only 18 years of age, the Belgian has regularly been kept away from his profession due to various nagging injuries. And when he's been fit, he has only received short stints as a super sub. This was the case versus Barcelona, where we once again saw the trickery and agility that has received plenty of praise from all over Europe, including Vincent Kompany, who worked with him at Anderlecht. He doesn't get past his defender all the time and definitely needs to fine-tune his dribbling, but there's no denying that he brings an unpredictable dynamic that can collapse a defense in an instant.
"Niki" Süle's year has been equally as complicated. If it hadn't been for Schlotterbeck tearing his meniscus, the experienced center-half would probably be an afterthought for many BVB fans. Injuries and an at times detached attitude have led to catastrophic mistakes on the pitch, which haven't reflected his hefty wage in the slightest. But the 29-year-old is seemingly on a mission for redemption. If Süle continues to start, my hope for him is that he builds on his recent performances to the point where we can rely on him like we do with Schlotterbeck.
Tim Kleindienst & Alassane Plea: What an inspirational ascension Tim Kleindienst has had! From journeyman to scoring for Germany in the Nations League quarter finals, it's safe to say Kleindienst has found a home in Gladbach. The lanky forward has 15 goals and five assists to his name in 27 starts. The former Heidenheim talisman is especially dangerous in the air, and marking will have to be a group effort. Additionally, Alassane Plea presents a similar threat in front of the goal. The Frenchman has netted 10 times and has no problem dropping deep and moving with the ball at his feet. When healthy, he's one of Gladbach's most consistent players.