Row with BVB star? Kehl sets the record straight | OneFootball

After a viral clip involving Nico Schlotterbeck, the rumor mill at BVB was in full swing. Now, sporting director Sebastian Kehl explains what really happened in the scene.

A short video clip from the recent Borussia Dortmund members' meeting has been the talk of the town. In the sequence, sporting director Sebastian Kehl is seen greeting the arriving players with a handshake – only Nico Schlotterbeck walks past him without a greeting. The scene went viral and fueled speculation about possible tensions between the center-back and the club's management.

Kehl himself clearly dismisses such rumors. After BVB's commanding 4-0 victory in the Champions League against FC Villarreal, the sporting director said: “Everything is okay. A lot was read into it.” Even though the situation “naturally looked a bit unfortunate,” he and Schlotterbeck were more amused by the public reactions.

Nevertheless, the situation surrounding the national player remains sensitive. The 25-year-old, whose contract runs until 2027, is on the radar of several top clubs – reportedly including FC Bayern. BVB would only be able to secure a reasonable transfer fee next summer if a new contract is not signed. Accordingly, the pressure for a decision is mounting.

BVB offers Schlotterbeck significantly higher salary

Photo: IMAGO

Kehl emphasizes that the club is doing everything to keep Schlotterbeck long-term. “We are trying to provide conditions that offer Schlotti an attractive environment,” he explained. The player is “thinking a lot,” as he wants to advance in his career and compete for titles. This is also the club’s goal.

To convince Schlotterbeck, BVB is willing to make concessions. In addition to a significant salary increase, a spot among the top earners is apparently on the table. Furthermore, the defender could take on the captaincy should Emre Can leave the club after his contract ends. “In the end, a decision will have to be made. We hope that this decision will be positive,” said Kehl, announcing: “We will also move economically.”

The much-discussed handshake incident is likely a misunderstanding – yet the future of the defensive chief remains a hot topic in Dortmund.

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