Comeback plan revealed: when BVB star Schlotterbeck returns | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund are still waiting for Nico Schlotterbeck’s return. BVB have a clear plan for their defensive leader’s comeback.

When will Nico Schlotterbeck return to the pitch? Recently, there have been conflicting reports surrounding Borussia Dortmund’s injured defensive leader. While some speculation pointed to a longer spell on the sidelines, BVB’s internal timetable, according to a report by BILD, still apparently targets a comeback in October. Schlotterbeck suffered a torn medial ligament in his left ankle during the World Cup, in the second group-stage match against Ivory Coast.

Since then, the 26-year-old has been working on his return. He remained quiet about his condition for a long time before speaking about it in more detail for the first time on the sidelines of the Formula 1 race in Zandvoort. “It’s simply a lengthy process. We have to take it day by day,” the centre-back explained. His cautious comments led some supporters to fear that the layoff could last longer than originally expected.

But apparently, there is currently no reason to fundamentally question the comeback plan. Although Schlotterbeck has not yet started running training, he is still said to be on schedule. In Dortmund, the Germany international is completing his rehab programme every day and is working on his fitness with strength and coordination exercises, among other things.

BVB planning Schlotterbeck comeback against Werder Bremen

One advantage: Schlotterbeck is completing his rehabilitation directly at BVB’s training ground in Brackel. This means he remains in regular contact with the team and coaching staff and has already been able to get to know Dortmund’s new signings.

Photo: IMAGO

The next key step is planned for the beginning of September. That is when the centre-back is expected to start working with the ball on the pitch again. After that, the medical department will closely monitor how his ankle responds to the increasing workload. If Schlotterbeck remains free of symptoms, the training load can gradually be increased.

According to BILD, the big target has also already been set: on 10 October, Dortmund will host Werder Bremen after the international break. Schlotterbeck is expected to ideally celebrate his comeback in that match under coach Niko Kovac. Until then, patience is still required. However, the defender himself remains optimistic: “Then I believe it won’t be much longer.” First, though, his ankle will have to get through the next stress tests without any setbacks.

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