Wolfsburg vs Borussia Monchengladbach preview - Wolves and Foals prepare for battle

Whether Wolfsburg or Borussia Monchengladbach can be regarded as the main challengers to Bayern Munich this season could become clearer this Sunday when they both meet at the VW-Arena.

Since their 18-game unbeaten streak came to an end, the Foals have lost two in the league before drawing with Villarreal in the Europa League on Thursday.

Wolfsburg's title challenge also suffered a setback last weekend when their six-game winning streak was ended by Schalke. They lost again on Thursday to Everton in the Europa League.

The clubs remain second and third in the Bundesliga, though, and are the most likely challengers to Bayern.

"We're going to need another very good performance on Sunday because Gladbach are very strong opponents," said Wolfsburg coach Dieter Hecking.

"They left players out tonight and rotate a lot so those who were not in action tonight will play against us on Sunday."

One who will not be playing is Granit Xhaka, whose goal earned Gladbach a point in Spain.

"It's really annoying that I can't play because of a stupid red card," said the Swiss midfielder, who has faith in his team-mates to pick up an overdue win.

"We have proven that there is still life in us, despite two defeats in a row. We know that Wolfsburg can be beaten."

Wolfsburg are also counting the cost of a suspension with Luiz Gustavo unavailable to Hecking, who also may have to do without the injured Josuha Guilavogui.

"We still hope he makes it, but it doesn't currently look like he will," reported the Wolfsburg coach.

Without those two midfielders, the Wolves are even more susceptible.

"If we raise our game, then we can pick up points in Wolfsburg," said Gladbach defender Roel Brouwers.