Nico Elvedi Appointed Vice-Captain, Future at Gladbach Uncertain Amid Contract Talks

Nico Elvedi, the 29-year-old defender, has been appointed vice-captain of VfL Borussia, a decision made by coach Eugen Polanski. This move comes as Elvedi enters his twelfth year with the club, having joined from Zurich in 2015 at the age of 18.

Coach Polanski expressed hope that this new role for the usually reserved Elvedi would influence his decision to extend his expiring contract. While Elvedi has openly stated his intention to use the upcoming World Cup as a platform to attract offers from larger, internationally competing clubs, he also described Gladbach as a "family and home."

Manager Rouven Schröder confirmed that there have been no offers for Elvedi or teammate Moritz Nicolas. Schröder indicated that any potential offers would be professionally evaluated, considering both sporting and financial aspects, as the club cannot simply reject inquiries. He ruled out a repeat of the tactic used by former sporting director Roland Virkus, who sidelined Elvedi three years prior until he extended his contract.

Instead, Schröder and Polanski are focused on convincing Elvedi of his importance to VfL Gladbach. Schröder highlighted Elvedi's quality as a player and his positive influence on the team, noting a special relationship between the player, the club, and its leadership. The manager suggested that discussions about Elvedi's future would take place as he enters the final year of his contract, leaving open the possibility of him remaining with Gladbach throughout his career.