Borussia Dortmund are grappling with significant injury concerns ahead of their upcoming Bundesliga clash against Werder Bremen. Head coach Niko Kovac provided an update on Wednesday, confirming doubts over several key players, including defender Nico Schlotterbeck.
Schlotterbeck, who was forced to leave the Germany national team camp due to an injury, has been undergoing individual training. Kovac indicated that the plan is for the centre-back to rejoin team training on Thursday. “‘Schlotti’ has been working individually. The plan is for him to train with the team tomorrow,” Kovac stated. He further highlighted the player’s determination, adding, “Anyone who knows ‘Schlotti’ knows that he always wants to play. He has that ambition.”
Squad Doubts Mount
Beyond Schlotterbeck, Dortmund also face uncertainty regarding the availability of wing-backs Julian Ryerson and Daniel Svensson. Attacking prospect Konstantinos Karetsas is another player listed as doubtful after returning from international duty.
Kovac Criticises International Workload
The recent international break, which saw national teams play four matches, drew criticism from Kovac regarding the increased workload on players. The Dortmund coach expressed his concerns about the demands placed on his squad. Kovac remarked, “It was definitely too much to have to play four matches, with all the travelling involved.”
He also reflected on the shift from friendly matches to the more competitive UEFA Nations League, suggesting a preference for the previous system. “Personally, I preferred the old system,” Kovac stated, emphasising the need for players to be managed differently given the heightened workload.
Dortmund will be keen to secure points against Werder Bremen, but the fitness of these key players will be a crucial factor in Kovac’s team selection.