Thriving in a new role

Florian Neuhaus is continuing to grow into his new leading role within the team, as demonstrated by his increased threat to the opposition goal in every game.

The midfielder scored his third goal of the season for the Foals in the style of a true centre forward. Jumping as high as he could in the penalty box and rising above the opposition’s defence, Neuhaus headed the ball home into the bottom-left corner to open the scoring and put the Foals ahead against 1. FSV Mainz 05. His celebration was not the usual running over to the fans with outstretched arms, but rather a humble point to his forehead, showing what a special goal his 21st in the Bundesliga was. The 26-year-old had not yet recorded a goal from a header in what is now eight seasons at professional level, so felt it only necessary to soak up the moment and celebrate this one properly.

“I want to take on more responsibility and take the next step,” Florian Neuhaus explained in July after he extended his contract with the club until 2027. Borussia’s number 10 is currently working hard to implement this ambition both on and off the pitch, proven by the fact that he is currently the joint top scorer for the Foals this season alongside Tomáš Čvančara. The midfielder has never had this many goals to his name so early on in the season. This just goes to show that his skills not only revolve around passing and creating chances, but that he’s also capable of finishing them, whether that’s with his head, right foot, or left foot. “Wearing the legendary number 10 on his back seems to have inspired Florian Neuhaus,” suggested the Süddeutsche Zeitung newspaper.

Neuhaus has also matched his ambitions of taking responsibility off the pitch. He was named as one of captain Jonas Omlin’s deputies alongside Julian Weigl ahead of the season, and is a member of the team council. The 26-year-old wants to lead by example and is keen to provide support to all the young and new players at the Foals. His aforementioned celebration in the recent home game is a clear example of this team spirit. Immediately after pointing to his head, he went straight over to his teammate Franck Honorat in order to thank him for the assist.

The midfielder is aware of his new role as a leader in the Foals’ new-look side. Neuhaus also knew that it wasn’t going to be an easy season for the team. However, as one of the constants in the Foals’ team, he is determined to follow this path: “I have the feeling that something is coming together again here,” said Neuhaus, already looking forward to the next challenge: “Next up for us is the derby and we’re determined to win it.”