Eleven years on: Nico Elvedi’s move to Leeds ends a Borussia era

On Tuesday, 29‑year‑old Swiss defender Nico Elvedi announced his departure from Bundesliga side Borussia Mönchengladbach, ending an eleven‑year spell at the club as he prepares to join English Premier League newcomers Leeds United. The move, confirmed on 19 August 2026, marks a new chapter after 364 league appearances for the German side.

Eleven‑year legacy at Borussia‑Park

Elvedi arrived at Borussia Mönchengladbach in the summer of 2015, signing from Swiss top‑flight side FC Zürich as an 18‑year‑old. By the time of his exit, the 29‑year‑old was the longest‑serving field player in the Gladbach squad. "I arrived as an 18‑year‑old without knowing what awaited me, and then I lived many special moments, met incredible people and made lifelong friends," Elvedi said. He added, "It is hard for me to take this step, but I feel I want to experience something new again."

Sporting director Rouven Schröder called Elvedi a “true Borussia legend” and said his loss hurts both on and off the pitch. Schröder noted that the defender’s wish for a fresh challenge was respected, provided the financial terms were met.

Transfer details and financials

Media reports indicate that Leeds United will pay roughly ten million euros, including a future resale clause. The agreement satisfies the economic conditions set by Borussia Mönchengladbach, allowing the move to proceed.

At Leeds, Elvedi will reunite with German manager Daniel Farke, who previously coached Gladbach in the 2022/23 season. The reunion is expected to ease his adaptation to English football.

International pedigree and future replacement

Elvedi has earned 73 caps for the Switzerland national team. His anticipated successor at Mönchengladbach is Japanese defender Ko Itakura, a former Gladbach player from 2022 to 2025 now contracted with Ajax Amsterdam.

Elvedi’s departure marks the end of an era for a player who has been part of both promotion battles and relegation fights in the Bundesliga. Borussia Mönchengladbach aims to reconcile its supporters with the move and signal a new direction for the club.