Haris Tabakovic has emerged as a key player for Borussia Mönchengladbach, contributing eleven of the team’s 27 Bundesliga goals this season—making him an invaluable asset for the Foals.
However, his journey could have taken a very different turn if not for the pivotal support of one individual. The 31-year-old striker was at a crossroads in his career before Alexander Kiene stepped in to guide him.
In 2020, Kiene brought Tabakovic to the Austrian second division, at a time when his career was faltering. After suffering a cruciate ligament injury in Hungary, Tabakovic found himself without a renewed contract and lacking any promising offers.
Kiene, the coach of Austria Lustenau, had his eye on Tabakovic and, after some persuasion, convinced him to join his team.
As reported by ‘Sportbild,’ Kiene recalled, “We were searching for exactly this type of center forward. Initially, Haris was hesitant due to the league’s lower profile and its physically demanding style of play, necessitating quite a bit of convincing. Since he hadn’t played for nearly a year, he eventually chose to take the chance.”
Kiene revealed that making this fresh start required significant mental and physical preparation.
Ultimately, the effort proved worthwhile: during his 48 competitive appearances for Austria Lustenau, Tabakovic netted an impressive 46 goals and assisted eleven times. This resurgence led him to Austria Vienna, then Hertha, and eventually to Hoffenheim, before his summer loan to Gladbach.
Tabakovic is also a mainstay in the Bosnian national team and still has the chance to qualify for the World Cup.
According to Kiene, he and Tabakovic remain in touch, reflecting on the pivotal moments that shaped the striker’s career.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.