Nico Schlotterbeck on new Borussia Dortmund contract: ‘This is a landmark decision’ | OneFootball

In a club released video, Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has spoken on his recently signed contract extension. The German national team defender sought to explain why negotiations dragged on so long, not to mention rehabilitate his public image following statements that criticized Dortmund’s decision to undertake a major managerial change.

Nico Schlotterbeck’s rift with Borussia Dortmund

Schlotterbeck openly complained that the club’s decision to sack long-time sporting director Sebastian Kehl left him without his “preferred negotiating partner“. The 26-year-old incurred quite a bit of criticism in the German press for speaking on the matter. The unwanted attention clearly affected Schlotterbeck’s performance over the international break and the centre-back remained on the defensive after the Bundesliga resumed.

The 26-times-capped international’s video clearly aimed to place the entire distraction behind him ahead of the coming summer World Cup. Schlotterbeck’s new deal does contain plenty of beneficial aspects for all parties involved. Dortmund can collect a respectable fee for Schlotterbeck via his exit clause should he decide to leave. Schlotterbeck’s new base salary of €10m, naturally, isn’t something for the player to complain about. 

Schlotterbeck explains why committed to BVB

“I’ve always said the same thing,” Schlotterbeck noted in the video. “As I remarked after [a Bundesliga match against] Union Berlin [in late January], I just wanted for us to all sit down so that I could listen to the crucial talking points. I think it’s the right moment to make the correct step for my career. I’m 26-years-old and in the prime of my career. This is a landmark decision.

“I think anyone can understand that I needed to take some time with it,” Schlotterbeck continued. “Fundamentally, I know what I have with this club. That’s why I went with the ‘pro-BVB’ decision and I’m happy about it. I’m a passionate type both on the pitch and in the locker room. That fits well with the [Westphalian] Ruhr Gebiet.

“I quickly settled in and felt comfortable here,” Schlotterbeck went on to say. “I truly cherish the support I received after my injury [last year]. I understand what the fans want from me and I’ll do my best to give everything for BVB until my final match. I believe the fans appreciate that. I’m really pleased about the chance to carry on with these fans.“

Schlotterbeck on the rough last week

“It was naturally a turbulent week with all the back-and-forth,” Schlotterbeck explained. “And there was naturally what I said [about Sebastian Kehl]. It’s clear that I’m extending with the entire club and not an individual person. I’d like to clarify again. I know it rubbed some people the wrong way. I did try to explain myself.

“I did want to know how the development of the club would proceed and what goals they wished to obtain in the next years,” Schlotterbeck continued. “I’ve seen some positive developments ahead of next season. Of course, I want to win the [Bundesliga] title with BVB. They presented their plan to me. I took my time. Now I’m ready to chase titles with BVB.

“We’ve come close before in recent years,” Schlotterbeck began. “I’ve seen what sort of impact the club, city, and supporters can make. That’s why I’m here and that’s why I’ve signed on for another four years.“

GGFN | Peter Weis