Comeback in sight: Dortmund hopeful for Schlotterbeck’s return soon | OneFootball

Good and bad news for BVB: Nico Schlotterbeck is close to making his comeback. However, the situation remains uncertain for captain Emre Can.

Borussia Dortmund can hope for the imminent return of defensive chief Nico Schlotterbeck. The 25-year-old is gradually working his way back after his meniscus tear and has been able to noticeably increase his training volume in recent weeks. According to a report by the Ruhr Nachrichten, he could be available again sooner than originally expected.

Schlotterbeck was injured in April, initially an absence until October was expected. But the rehab is going according to plan - and possibly even better. In mid-August, the central defender was back on the pitch with the ball for the first time. BVB commented appropriately on Instagram at the time: "Steps in the right direction: Schlotti back with the ball at his foot."

The latest impressions from training also raise hopes: Schlotterbeck looks top fit, apparently having kept himself strong in the weight room for months. Now, according to the Ruhr Nachrichten, everything indicates that a comeback at the end of September is realistic.

Captain Emre Can remains a concern for BVB

He probably won't be used for a full 90 minutes yet, but Borussia could soon see their defensive chief back on the pitch.

Coach Niko Kovac did not want to give a concrete prognosis recently: "You can't say anything concrete yet. One thing is of course what they do outside of team training - and they are on the right track." But he made it clear: "Integration into the team is another thing."

While Schlotterbeck is approaching his return, much remains unclear for Emre Can. The captain has been out since early June with adductor problems. According to Bild, "no one in the club knows exactly" when he can intervene again. A quick return is ruled out, Can will definitely miss the upcoming Bundesliga match against 1. FC Heidenheim.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.