Borussia Mönchengladbach

Borussia Moenchengladbach were a true counterweight to Bayern Munich in the 1970s, winning five league titles during that decade. But the Foals have never been able to replicate that success and got themselves relegated in 2007 despite overspending in a vain attempt to return to the elite.

The club has had some roller coaster seasons, but nothing quite like last year's. The team hugged bottom spot for 17 straight weeks before mounting an improbable escape act to stay in the league under coach Lucien Favre, who didn't take over until match day 23. Since achieving the impossible the Swiss, who is not known for expressions of euphoria, has been modest in pronouncements about the team's potential.

It's probably for the best. As a club with a passionate fan base and fine youth academy, as long as they keep a cool head they could well succeed in their aim to become a first-division mainstay.

Fun fact: Gladbach once had a 7-1 win over Inter Milan annulled because an opponent was hit in the head with an empty beer can.

Author: Jefferson Chase
Editor: Matt Hermann