Because of his age
Gladbach’s talent almost wasn’t allowed to play in the cup
October 29, 2025 – 12:54 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
Borussia Mönchengladbach won the DFB Cup and are through. Wael Mohya was also happy. He is now the youngest professional in the club’s history.
The decision was made in the final phase. When Borussia Mönchengladbach made it 3-1 shortly before the end of the game, coach Eugen Polanski used the opportunity for a special moment: Wael Mohya made his first appearance in the professional team – due to his age, it became a historic moment.
At 16 years, nine months and 27 days, the midfielder is now the youngest debutant in the club’s history. The previous record was held by Karlheinz Pflipsen, who played for Gladbach in the cup for the first time in 1988 at the age of 17.
Polanski explained the late substitution with a wink: “We had to be careful because of the time and the youth protection law. If it had been extended it would have been difficult,” said the coach. However, because the game against Karlsruher SC was decided in the 89th minute, the risk was manageable.
There was also praise for the young professional. Polanski emphasized that he is a fan of giving players early experience, regardless of age. Mohya is very professional, one of the first on the pitch and one of the last to leave the premises. “Of course also because he doesn’t have a driver’s license. He always has to be picked up,” joked the trainer.
Mohya became German champion with the U17 team last season and has been part of the professional squad since the summer. An injury during preparation initially delayed his entry. So now the first short assignment – combined with an entry in the club’s history. Polanski hopes the minutes will help Mohya take the next step. “He still has a lot to learn,” said the coach.
Another record could soon fall: Marko Marin is still the youngest Gladbach player to appear in the Bundesliga. He was 18 years and 18 days old when he made his debut in March 2007. But this value is unlikely to last for much longer.