Borussia Monchengladbach’s long historical stint in Europe finally starts again after six years out of the European competitions. Although, during the 70’s and 80’s ‘Gladbach went through a ‘golden age’ winning a Pokal and three consecutive Bundesliga titles but in that space of time European glory was also at a high, despite Mönchengladbach losing the 1977 final of the European Cup to Liverpool, Die Fohlen also made four appearances in the UEFA Cup with wins in 1975 and 1979 against losses in 1973 and 1980.  

Borussia Monchengladbach will be without two key players in southeastern Europe. Forward Max Kruse ruled out due to a pelvic injury, Captain Fillip Daems is also ruled out while Christoph Kramer will not make the trip as "he hasn’t been back in training long enough,” according to Lucien Favre. Other members in the squad including new signings Andre Hahn, Yann Sommer, Fabian Johnson among others are available for selection.

Gladbach were boosted ahead of the tie following Mahmoud Dahou and Marvin Schulz’s contract extensions till 2018.

FK Sarajevo are here in this clash following their third place finish in the Bosnian Premier League and after they beat Atromitos 3-1 overall in the previous round

Sarajevo went top of the Bosnian Premier League on seven points at the weekend following a 1-1 draw with FK Velez, extending their unbeaten start to the domestic campaign, their recent run of form is very shaky with two wins and two losses. FK Sarajevo have never before progressed beyond the qualification rounds.

While Gladbach beat FC Homburg 3-1 in the DFB Pokal, last weekend. They have also had a very good pre season winning four of their pre season games but they were left rocked as they finished last in the Telekom Cup and got beat heavily by Atletico Madrid.

In the Europa League Gladbach are two-time winners of the competition, most recently reaching the Round of 32 in 2012/13.

"To qualify for this competition from the Bosnian league, you need quality. In terms of logistics and the distance we have to travel, it could have been worse,” said Gladbach sporting director Max Eberl.

Coach Lucien Favre spoke before the clash: “We know we have to give everything. If we get a clean sheet, then we have more peace of mind for the second leg would be won," and assured that "we are hot on the game."

"I'm really looking forward to making my debut in European football," said Andre Hahn who joined from FC Augsburg in the summer, "For me there's nothing better than playing in front of a fiery crowd. Almost the whole stadium will be against us but we've got a good team who know how to look after themselves."

Fellow Summer Signing Yann Sommer with plenty of European experience spoke prior to the game, "It is a difficult game, but we look forward to playing."

(Credit RP-Online.com, Kicker.com, Bundesliga.com)