In the Borussia Mönchengladbach fan curve, there was a huge poster proclaiming "Against modern football" - a clear sign of fans' disapproval of the proposed investor deal by the German Football League (DFL). But even amid the fans' opposition, there are still magical tales in modern soccer. One such tale is the phenomenal half-season of U21 international, Rocco Reitz, who netted his first Bundesliga brace against Werder Bremen.
Club member since birth, Reitz was an integral part of Gladbach's 2:2 draw against Bremen, providing the team with two goals in the 45th and 49th minutes. Sporting director Roland Virkus was delighted to have such a young, homegrown talent making waves in the team. Although Reitz nearly became the match-winner, Gladbach's defense succumbed to some individual weaknesses, allowing Bremen to score twice.
Virkus couldn't help but smile when discussing Reitz, recognizing the youngster as a new hero for the Borussia fans, who have been longing for a true identification figure. In a DAZN interview, an elated Reitz echoed Virkus' sentiments, saying, "This year has been incredible. I'm living a dream right now, definitely."
Born into Borussia's blue-and-white heart, Reitz started playing for the club at the tender age of seven. His love for both the club and soccer is as immense as it gets, and he was a regular run-in child, frequently attending matches with his father. The fact that he now holds a key position in Gladbach's midfield and has been a strong driving force is an achievement that makes Borussia fans beam with pride.
Comparisons to legendary midfielders like the young Matthäus or Effenberg have been drawn due to Reitz's exhilarating and dynamic presence on the field. Sporting director Virkus agreed with these comparisons, highlighting Reitz's poising aggressiveness and professionalism.
Reitz's confidence shone through in the summer, following his two-year loan to the Belgian first division club VV St. Truiden. Virkus had already foreseen a breakthrough season for the youngster, and he was spot on. In all 15 league games this season, Reitz has managed to score four goals, and was even crowned player of the month by the fans in September, October, and November.
By the end of the season, U21 national coach Antonio Di Salvo was full of praise for Reitz, emphasizing his always-wanted-ball mentality and fearlessness in tight situations. Reitz also made the most of his opportunities, scoring another brace in his first game of November.
Keep scrolling to read more about Rocco Reitz, his background, and his performances in detail.
