Schlotterbeck set for exit? Major unrest at Dortmund | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund is in the spotlight due to the future of Nico Schlotterbeck. A report about the alleged frustration of the defense chief is apparently causing significant internal irritation.

The situation surrounding Nico Schlotterbeck is currently causing unrest at Borussia Dortmund. The defense chief is hesitating to extend his contract. A media report about alleged frustration towards coach Niko Kovac has apparently caused "great irritation" internally at BVB.

The trigger was a report by the Bild-Zeitung, which claimed that Schlotterbeck was dissatisfied with the "extremely pragmatic and mostly unattractive football" under Kovac. It was also speculated that the national player might tie his future at BVB to a possible coach dismissal. This portrayal caused surprise in Dortmund. As reported by WAZ, the club is "greatly irritated" by these rumors, especially since Schlotterbeck's own statements recently pointed in a completely different direction.

After the 1-2 defeat at FC Bayern in mid-October, the 25-year-old stated on Sky microphone: "I also have no problem continuing on this path." He also praised the development under Kovac at the time: "It's really enjoyable, it's a lot of fun."

BVB still hopes for Schlotterbeck to stay

Internally, it is also emphasized that the center-back has repeatedly underlined his identification with the club. Although Schlotterbeck does not want to make his decision "too early," he also emphasized: "I'm excited about the club."

Nevertheless, it is clear: BVB is eager to extend his contract. According to club circles, Schlotterbeck is not only promised a salary in the top-earner category but also the captaincy if he signs. Club boss Hans-Joachim Watzke recently stated: "I have, of course, also told him what it means to become a world star at Borussia Dortmund like Mats Hummels. But it's his decision."

However, Dortmund has recently provided few sporting arguments. In the last five competitive matches, they only scored five goals – and Schlotterbeck himself warned after the disappointing 1-1 draw against Hamburger SV: "We need to play a bit more football."

Whether the relationship between player and coach is indeed strained remains open. What is certain is that the rumors about alleged thoughts of leaving have not improved the mood at BVB – and the question of Nico Schlotterbeck's future is likely to occupy the club for a while longer.

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