Comeback in sight: Kleindienst fights for Gladbach and World Cup dream

Comeback in sight: Kleindienst fights for Gladbach and World Cup dream

For Tim Kleindienst, being a spectator in the relegation battle is pure agony. In Borussia Mönchengladbach’s 1-1 draw against Mainz, the striker was once again only in the stands — a situation he wants to end as soon as possible. “To be honest, I really have no desire to just watch,” the Germany international openly admitted in an interview with 'Bild'. He finally wants to make an impact himself again.

After almost a year out through injury, the captain’s return is now within reach. Kleindienst, who has been sorely missed by Gladbach as both a reliable goalscorer and a figure fans identify with, has a clear goal in mind: to return for the final two matches of the season. In particular, an appearance in the last home game at Borussia-Park would be a highlight for the 30-year-old.

A decisive fitness test is scheduled for next week. It will determine whether the muscles are ready for extreme strain after the serious meniscus injury. Remarkably, the circumference of his right thigh had temporarily shrunk by six centimeters. By now, however, Kleindienst is optimistic: “My body is adapting very quickly at the moment.”

The road back has been rocky. Since his surgery in May 2025, there have been repeated setbacks. A brief comeback attempt in November failed and made another procedure necessary. After that, inflammation in the knee slowed the healing process. However, Kleindienst emphasized that he deliberately did not take any risks: “You have to give the joint time to rest.”

Despite the long layoff, Kleindienst has never lost sight of his big goal of being part of the World Cup squad in the summer: "Goals like that are especially important mentally during a long-term rehab. Because you really invest a lot of heart, strength, and sweat. I also get up every day and work on making progress for the World Cup. And as long as nobody calls me and tells me I’m out, it would be unwise to give up on that goal. The chances are not great, but they’re not zero either.”

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann also always stayed in contact. "He sent me a message once and asked about my current status. I know what role I would have if I went there. But maybe there will be that one special moment," Kleindienst said about his