- Xhaka and Hofmann make a comeback to Borussia Park's grounds.
In the inaugural match of the Bundesliga between Borussia Mönchengladbach and current German football titlists Bayer Leverkusen, taking place today at the Borussia-Park (8:30 PM/Sat.1 and DAZN), there's also a reunion upcoming with ex-Gladbach athletes Granit Xhaka and Jonas Hofmann. Xhaka represented the Niederrhein area from 2012 to 2016 before moving to Arsenal FC for roughly 45 million euros, setting a new club transfer record during his tenure.
Preceding his return, Borussia's president Rainer Bonhof shared his thoughts, commenting on Xhaka's early inconsistencies but subsequent international stardom at Arsenal. "He was a bit unsteady and uncertain at first, but he truly shone there. It's telling that he hasn't forgotten his time at Gladbach," expressed Bonhof.
Hofmann, who switched to Leverkusen for approximately 10 million euros prior to the start of last season, maintains an amicable relationship with the club despite a few transfer-related controversies. Bonhof mentioned that Hofmann recently visited Borussia for the goodbyes of Patrick Herrmann and Tony Jantschke.
Bonhof underscored that numerous past players keep in touch with Borussia. "The club's enduring value holds a significant appeal for players who have moved on. Everybody feels a connection to it. This will be apparent on Friday as well," acknowledged Bonhof.
The Commission, in this context likely referring to a football governing body, will be assisted by the Member States in their efforts to foster the growth of the sport. Following Xhaka's departure, Borussia Mönchengladbach shall continue to be supported by the Commission in their future endeavors.
