Matarazzo: “We’re full of optimism”

Pellegrino Matarazzo on…

…Borussia Mönchengladbach: “Gladbach are a team that have not started optimally but have stabilised in recent weeks. They can pose a danger with their counter-attacking play; at the same time, they are relatively compact off the ball. They’re not a pleasant opponent. It will not only come down to tactics. We’ve already won games this season because we simply played with full energy.”

…his team’s chances on the Lower Rhine: “We approach every game with optimism and always play to win. We’re full of optimism, we want to be successful.”

…possible self-satisfaction: “I’m not satisfied. After the game against Mainz, the lads weren’t satisfied either. Sometimes you need a game like that so that something happens. I’m clear on our path; it’s a matter of implementing it. Hence why I am not satisfied.”

…the energy in the team: “Performance highs and lows are normal. The question is always how long a low lasts. You have to extend your antennae and intervene quickly if something stands out. We have ambitions here and there are important games coming up. We want more but if we want more, there needs to be a desire on every matchday and in every training session. Those who don’t go to their limit will have it tough.”

…the players’ stance on social issues: “We represent values as a club. A similar system of values is important so that we can be successful together. We support the players on their path and stand by their side. Role models are important and football plays an important role in our society. I’m delighted that our lads have their heart in the right place and have this mindset. It’s a great squad.”

…Max Moerstedt’s performance at the U17 World Cup: “I’m of course following the tournament. I’m delighted about the success that he is having. Max has already been in training with us and has shown that he is very talented. He’s a good lad, I’m delighted about his path and I’m sure that he can continue to develop here and will be successful.”

…the return to 50+1: “It changes very little for me personally; it doesn’t really affect our work. Dietmar Hopp has created something unique here; we try to celebrate the successes in our day-to-day business, irrespective of our structure.”

The personnel situation:

In addition to long-term injury absentees Dennis Geiger, Mergim Berisha and Marco John, Grischa Prömel is suspended. Bambasé Conté suffered an adductor strain with the U23s and is out. Florian Grillitsch and Anton Stach are currently still ill but are expected to return to training on Thursday or Friday. Stanley Nsoki is back in training but it remains to be seen whether he is an option.

The opposition’s form:

Mönchengladbach took four points from three games in November. Last week, Gerardo Seoane’s team lost the battle of the Borussias 4-2 in Dortmund, despite having led 2-0 at one point. Gladbach occupy 11th spot in the table with 13 points.

Head-to-head record:

The record in the previous 30 meetings is almost even: TSG have won nine matches, while Gladbach have triumphed 10 times. 11 games have been draws. But the Foals have the clearly superior goal difference – Borussia have scored 13 goals more than TSG in those 30 matches (60-47).