Dortmund defensive concerns: another star doubtful vs Atalanta | OneFootball

After the clear 4-0 victory against Mainz, Borussia Dortmund faces new personnel concerns. A BVB star limped out of the stadium after the final whistle and might miss the duel with Atalanta.

The 4-0 home win of Borussia Dortmund against 1. FSV Mainz 05 could have ensured a completely successful evening. However, after the final whistle, a scene off the pitch came into focus: Niklas Süle left the dressing room visibly affected—limping and as the first Dortmund professional.

The central defender had already been substituted at halftime. With the score at 3-0, coach Niko Kovac brought on 18-year-old Luca Reggiani. Initially, the substitution seemed like a precaution—also because Süle had received an early yellow card. But the situation doesn't seem to be entirely harmless.

“Niklas already had slight thigh complaints before the game. We didn't want to take any more risks,” Kovac explained after the match. Dortmund didn't want to take unnecessary risks given the comfortable lead—also with a view to the upcoming playoff first leg in the Champions League against Atalanta Bergamo.

Süle causes concerns: BVB worries after Mainz victory

Photo: IMAGO

To contextualize the decision, the BVB coach added: “Then there was also the yellow card, so I am very cautious, especially considering that Mainz is good at counter-attacking and has a lot of speed. We had to be careful there.”

The situation is particularly tense because the defense is already stretched thin. Emre Can (adductor problems) was recently absent, as was Nico Schlotterbeck due to a yellow card suspension. If Süle is indeed out, the personnel situation would worsen further. Sporting director Sebastian Kehl could neither give the all-clear nor guarantee his participation after the final whistle.

At least youngster Reggiani provided positive highlights in his home debut. The 18-year-old integrated well and impressed with his composure on the ball. Kovac explicitly praised him afterward: “It was a great debut; he did really well.”

Despite the clear success, a question mark remains over Dortmund's back three. The victory against Mainz brings confidence—but whether Süle will be fit in time is likely to be the most exciting personnel question in the coming days.

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