Rocco Reitz tackles former club Borussia Mönchengladbach in Leipzig debut amid transfer backlash
Midfielder Rocco Reitz will make his first appearance for RB Leipzig against his former side Borussia Mönchengladbach in the opening match of the 2026/27 Bundesliga season, a fixture that has already attracted intense scrutiny following his controversial move last summer. The 24‑year‑old, a product of the Mönchengladbach academy since 2009, left the club to join one of the league’s most polarising teams, prompting protests from supporters who felt betrayed by the transfer.
The backlash was evident as fans staged demonstrations outside the club’s facilities, and Reitz admitted that the criticism “affected me” during his introductory press conference on Monday. He emphasized that a stable personal environment helped him cope, noting, “My wife and my kids helped me out a lot. Of course, my father, my brother and the rest of my immediate family.”
Reitz also highlighted the importance of limiting his exposure to social media, stating, “It’s also important to spend very little time on social media and focus on the important things.” He added that while everyone is entitled to their own opinion, the decision to leave was ultimately his own, and “for me, it was all more‑or‑less okay.”
Looking ahead to the season opener, Reitz showed a mix of anticipation and resolve. A slight smirk crossed his face as he replied, “I thought, there’s more craziness. I’m really looking forward to it, especially seeing the lads again after I wasn’t able to really say goodbye properly given the way things turned out.” He framed the match as a professional challenge, saying, “Once we’re all on the pitch, it’s all about the three points at stake. I hope we’ll be able to keep the points here.”
Leipzig’s coach, aware of the emotional charge surrounding the encounter, hinted that Reitz’s familiarity with Mönchengladbach’s tactics could provide a strategic edge. The club’s recent signings, including Reitz, signal an ambition to strengthen the midfield and push for a top‑four finish, while Mönchengladbach will be eager to prove a point against a player they once nurtured.
The fixture, set for the weekend, will be closely watched by Bundesliga fans and analysts alike, not only for its sporting implications but also as a barometer of how quickly Reitz can settle into Leipzig’s system amid lingering fan resentment. The outcome could shape the narrative around his transfer for the rest of the season.