Borussia Monchengladbach striker Tim Kleindienst says he is determined to earn another Germany call-up, although he accepts he must first regain his rhythm after an 11-month injury absence.
Kleindienst also revealed he has not yet contacted coach Klopp, saying he does not have his number. However, the 29-year-old insists representing the national team remains a major ambition.
“I don’t have his number, and I haven’t contacted him yet. But the national team is always in my heart. I really want to be called up to the national team again.”
He recognises that his chances will depend on both his own performances and the coach’s tactical preferences.
“That was an incredible moment, but first I have to get back into rhythm. Ultimately, many factors will determine the outcome, such as my performance and whether the coach wants to use a traditional center-forward.”
Kleindienst made clear that his immediate focus is on helping Borussia Monchengladbach improve after a disappointing campaign. He believes the club’s minimum target should be a top-10 finish and wants the side to show greater consistency throughout the season.
“The demand should be to get into the top ten. This season should be much more stable than last season. Last season was not ideal; in the 2023/24 season we were still competing for European qualification until seven rounds were left, but after that we didn’t maintain enough stability.”
The forward also hopes the club’s new arrivals can settle quickly and contribute to a stronger team.
“We need to stay consistent until the very end. I also hope that the new players joining the team can adapt as quickly as possible.”
European qualification remains an ambition, but Kleindienst believes Monchengladbach must avoid setting unrealistic expectations. He pointed to Stuttgart and Hoffenheim as examples of clubs that made rapid progress after previously being close to relegation.
“Of course, you can dream. Stuttgart has proven that, and Hoffenheim has done it too. They were once close to relegation, but then suddenly entered European competition the next season.”
At the same time, he would prefer to see the club build a reliable challenge over several seasons rather than enjoy one successful campaign followed by a collapse.
“We have to be realistic. I would rather see the team perform well for several consecutive years than just play in Europe for one year and then completely collapse the second year.”
Kleindienst is encouraged by the character within the current squad. He praised players who have arrived from lower leagues for their determination, experience of intense matches and ability to withstand difficult situations.
“We always have potential. The players who came here from lower leagues are very good; they have fighting spirit, are familiar with the intensity of the game, and also possess resilience.”
He added that the squad’s response to setbacks would be a crucial test of its progress.
“I am very happy with this squad, the training methods, and the attitude towards the game. The most important thing next is how we deal with setbacks. If the start is not as expected, how will we respond? That’s when you’ll see who steps up and takes responsibility.”
Personally, Kleindienst is aiming to rediscover the scoring form that saw him net 16 goals two years ago. He said about 15 goals would represent a successful campaign, but stressed that fitness and the team’s form would influence his total.
“If I can score around 15 goals, that would be great. I scored 16 goals two years ago, and if I can do it again, that would be perfect.”
“It depends on many factors, including my condition after an 11-month injury layoff and the performance of the entire team. I won’t wake up every morning and tell myself: ‘You have to score 17 goals.'”
Reflecting on his rehabilitation, Kleindienst admitted the lengthy absence was difficult, although he is now able to train without restriction.
“I sometimes still think back to those 11 months. That time felt especially long. But now I can train normally, without any problems, and it’s really wonderful to be back here, back on the field. I’m very happy.”
For the opening match of the new season against RB Leipzig, Kleindienst offered a direct prediction.
“We will win! I don’t care how we win.”
