Title talk: BVB bosses puzzled by Schlotterbeck’s championship claim | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund will continue to avoid making the championship a public topic. Nico Schlotterbeck's clear statement is nevertheless causing discussions internally at BVB.

Nico Schlotterbeck's championship statement has drawn attention at Borussia Dortmund – and apparently also caused some irritation. After the narrow 3-2 victory against 1. FC Heidenheim, the central defender spoke unusually openly about BVB's title ambitions, sparking an internal debate.

"As BVB, you sometimes have to have the ambition to tell the fans: We want to become champions," Schlotterbeck explained after the match. Given the gap to FC Bayern Munich had shrunk to six points, the 26-year-old deliberately wanted to send a signal – but this was not well received everywhere in Dortmund's leadership circle.

As reported by Bild, the public challenge caused "astonishment" and "irritation" within the club. Externally, the officials also demonstratively hit the brakes on euphoria. Sporting director Sebastian Kehl avoided addressing title dreams and instead focused on performance: "I find it a bit difficult to address this after this game and this performance. I don't think it makes sense now either."

BVB leadership remains cautious: Championship remains publicly taboo

Coach Niko Kovac struck a similar tone, making it clear that other goals currently have priority for him. "My focus is on the rearview mirror. I first want to see those behind us shrink," the coach explained at the press conference. This caution fits the club leadership's previous communication line. For weeks, BVB bosses have avoided publicly speaking about the title.

President Lars Ricken had already emphasized during the winter break that one must remain realistic and pointed to the dominance of Munich, who "normally become German champions." Schlotterbeck's bold advance now makes the situation all the more exciting – also with regard to his own future. The national player is under contract until 2027, known for being ambitious and hungry for titles. Whether the lack of backing for his words could have long-term effects remains open.

Sportingly, the discussion could quickly take a new turn: At the end of February, there will be a direct duel with FC Bayern in Dortmund. By then, it will become clear whether Schlotterbeck's championship statement generates tailwind – or additional pressure.

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