Gladbach’s Stefan Lainer has made his Bundesliga comeback after recovering from cancer. For him the most emotional game of his career.
Stefan Lainer is back. The 31-year-old came on as a substitute in the 71st minute in the home game against FC Augsburg on Sunday, celebrating a successful comeback after a long period of suffering.
During the summer preparation, the Austrian right-back was diagnosed with lymph node cancer. In November, Lainer returned to training after his treatment and now made his first league appearance.
“Most emotional game of my career”
At 5:25 p.m. on Sunday there was a huge cheer in Borussia Park for the first time when Lainer’s name was read out. “Of course everyone is overjoyed and very pleased, especially for him and his family, who have been through a difficult time,” Borussia coach Gerardo Seoane said before the game on streaming channel DAZN. They finally returned to the pitch in the 71st minute.
Lainer himself was visibly satisfied after the game – despite the 2-1 home defeat against the Fuggerstadt team. “It’s difficult to put the whole thing into words. I think it was a long time. By the way, the last time I was on the pitch was against Augsburg. Being back on the pitch now was very emotional . “Definitely the most emotional game of my career. It’s wonderful that everything went well and that I got the minutes. I hope that things are steadily improving now,” said Lainer happily. The Austrian was back on the pitch for the first time in 239 days.
Many people took good care of him during his suffering. Special greetings went out to his doctor and his family. “They have always supported me and ensured that I am where I am now. Football is my passion, that is what is very important in my life.”