The nightmare didn’t seem to end …
A year and a half ago, VfL star Denis Zakaria (24) was one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe, and a transfer in the € 50 million range seemed certain.
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But then the ordeal began. Collision with his own goalkeeper Yann Sommer (32), knee crash, cartilage damage, surgery first dragged off, but finally carried out.
So it took over nine months for the comeback. Zakaria, however, had lost a lot of form and fitness, his regular place in Gladbach and in the Swiss national team he was also thrown back a long way.
Thank you, Coach: Zakaria after his goal with “Papa” HütterPhoto: Borussia Moenchengladbach via Getty Images
The planned transfer failed, and all interested parties remained cautiously cautious this summer, so that “Zak” had to stay in Gladbach despite the contract expiring in 2022 and his already expressed wish to change.
Now the sensational turnaround!
Zakaria missed the start of the season because of Corona. After the false start with one point from three games, Adi Hütter (51) got him into the starting line-up against Bielefeld.
The Swiss promptly delivered a super gala (BILD rating 1), scored the 3-1 final score and received mega praise from his coach, whom he knows from the Young Boys Bern from his Tennie days.
Hütter on BILD request: “It was almost breathtaking what Denis played with his dynamic. I’ve known him for a long time, he’s almost like a son to me. I am very happy that he is now back on a really good path. “
It is still unclear where this will lead in the medium term. Zakaria already stated: “Whether I will extend my career at Gladbach or leave the club cannot be foreseen today. “
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