Eugen Polanski makes Gladbach admission after Freiburg thrashing: ‘We need honest conversations’

Eugen Polanski has called for “honest conversations” at Borussia Mönchengladbach after his side suffered a damaging 5-0 defeat against Freiburg.

Gladbach remain without a point after their opening three Bundesliga matches, with Saturday’s loss compounded by Tim Kleindienst’s second-half dismissal.

Polanski felt his side had actually started the contest positively before another individual error opened the door for Freiburg.

“I think we came into the game very, very well in the first 15 minutes and did what we had spoken about, because we know Freiburg can create a lot of pressure, especially at the start of games,” he told DAZN after the defeat.

“I think we were even slightly better at that point, without creating any major chances.

“Then, once again, an individual mistake starts the flood of goals we concede. With the second one, it is simply far too easy to score goals against us.”

Gladbach trailed 2-0 when Kleindienst received his second yellow card, before Freiburg added another three goals during the closing stages.

Polanski questioned the decision to dismiss his captain, although he refused to use the referee as an excuse for the eventual margin of defeat.

“In my opinion, the foul for the second yellow card isn’t enough for a yellow,” he added.

“Of course, that is decisive when you are 2-0 down, reduced to ten men and trying to come back.

“I told the referee that as well, but we don’t need to complain about the referee. We have to be smarter in the challenges that matter and in front of goal.”

The Gladbach boss was also directly asked whether the club still believes he is the man capable of guiding them out of their difficult start.

“Everyone knows how the business works,” Polanski said.

“At the end of the day, just like after every matchday, we have to look each other in the eye and discuss things, and that is what we will do.”

Pressed on whether he remains confident of turning the situation around, Polanski added: “I’m convinced that we can get out of this, but nevertheless, we should have honest conversations.”