Gladbach's Relegation Fight Complicates Move for Loan Striker Tabakovic
Borussia Mönchengladbach's precarious position in the Bundesliga relegation battle is severely complicating their ability to pursue the permanent signing of on-loan striker Haris Tabakovic. Manager Rouven Schröder admitted the club's uncertain league status for next season has made negotiations with his parent club, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, impossible at this stage.
The issue was brought into sharp focus following Gladbach's disappointing 2-2 home draw against bottom-placed FC Heidenheim, a result that leaves the club just above the relegation zone. Speaking to Sportschau, Schröder explained the direct impact on transfer planning. "Our situation complicates the planning immensely," he said. "In talks with potential new signings, it is always more attractive if you can say for sure that you will be playing in the Bundesliga. The sooner that is settled, the better."
Tabakovic, who has an additional year on his contract with Hoffenheim after this season, has scored 11 goals during his loan spell. His stock rose further this week when he scored a late equalizer and a penalty in a shootout to help Bosnia and Herzegovina qualify for the 2026 World Cup at Italy's expense. Schröder acknowledged the striker's rising value and the competition it will create. "Haris has scored eleven goals, belongs to Hoffenheim, and is going to the World Cup. Everyone is looking for a centre-forward," he noted.
The financial constraints of a potential relegation are a central concern. Schröder pointed out that staying in the Bundesliga directly dictates the club's budget. Gladbach also has several other strikers on their books, including Tim Kleindienst and Shuto Machino, with Tomas Cvancara set to return from his own loan spell, further complicating the decision.
Internally, the club is seeking stability to navigate the final six matches. A managerial change is considered highly unlikely, with current coach Eugen Polanski, who replaced the sacked Gerardo Seoane earlier in the season, expected to remain in charge until at least the summer. Schröder stressed the need for focus, stating that a complete overhaul of mood would be a mistake, but acknowledged the disappointment after the Heidenheim result.
The immediate sporting future is fraught with difficulty. Gladbach face a challenging run-in, starting with a trip to RB Leipzig, who are chasing Champions League football. They then host in-form Mainz before a potentially decisive clash against fellow strugglers VfL Wolfsburg. This uncertainty postpones all major squad decisions.
Furthermore, the club is already set to lose a key midfield pillar, with Rocco Reitz confirmed to be joining RB Leipzig in the summer. Funds that might be needed for a managerial change are instead required for essential squad reinforcements. For now, all planning is on hold until Borussia Mönchengladbach's league status for the 2026/27 season is secured.
