“That’s why I’m here” – Nico Schlotterbeck on his decision in favour of BVB | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck wanted to weigh up all the options carefully. At the same time, however, he was always clear about how important Borussia Dortmund is to him: “Basically, I knew what I have in this club and what I will continue to have here in the future. That’s why I’ve now decided to stay with BVB. I’m absolutely delighted to be extending my contract here.”

The sporting prospects were also important to him. The centre-back wanted to know where the club was heading and what it aims to achieve in the coming years. His own goals are clearly defined: “Of course, my aim is to win a title. And of course I want to win titles with BVB.” That is why he looked closely at the plan presented to him by BVB’s management: “They put it to me. I am in complete agreement with it.”

For him, the contract extension is also a promise to take on even more responsibility: “I’m going to step up now so that we can win a title with BVB. That’s what we all play for at BVB.” He also looks back on the recent past: “Of course, we’ve come close twice before, in 2023 and 2024. I’ve seen what can be achieved here, the sheer power that the club, the stadium and the city can unleash.” That is exactly where he wants to pick up: “That’s why this is the big goal I want to achieve with BVB. That’s why I’m here. That’s why I signed my first contract almost four years ago, and that’s why I’ve signed now.”

So, as well as the sporting prospects, the environment also plays a big part: “It just felt right after the first few years, and I also felt very appreciated by the way I was welcomed back after my injury.” It was the fans’ reactions in particular that gave him a boost: “I know what the fans want from me. I always try to give my all, and I think the fans appreciate that. I’m an emotional sort on the pitch. In the dressing room, I’m loud, but not so emotional. And I think that fits in well with the Ruhr region.”