Future uncertain – Kjell Wätjen doesn't rule out return to Bochum | OneFootball

In VfL Bochum’s 2-1 win away at Karlsruher SC on Sunday, Kjell Wätjen was allowed to start for the first time since the beginning of April and promptly repaid that trust with the goal for the early 1-0 lead. However, the 20-year-old’s 26th appearance overall in a VfL shirt was also his last, as the loan agreed with Borussia Dortmund expires at the end of the season. What happens next for Wätjen, though, is still open.

“For now, I’m heading back to Dortmund,” Wätjen told Reviersport, explaining his short-term plans, although there is hardly likely to be much of a prospect for him in BVB’s first-team squad, and the midfielder’s ambition is unlikely to be playing for the second team in the Regionalliga West.

A contract with BVB running until 2028 would in principle allow for another loan. But a permanent transfer also seems conceivable, possibly along the lines of the agreement with 1. FC Union Berlin regarding Tom Rothe, with a buy-back option.

“I felt at home from day one”

Looking back on his time in Bochum, Wätjen drew a positive conclusion despite a spell in which he had little playing time: “The second half of the season was a bit difficult for me, but even so, I think I can take the positives from it as well. All in all, it was more of a successful year than an unsuccessful one,” said the Germany U20 international, who believes the expectations attached to the loan were met: “I’m grateful that I was able to take the next step here.”

Photo: IMAGO

Wätjen will definitely remember VfL Bochum fondly: “The fans will stay with me too. The atmosphere at the club. It’s very family-like. I felt at home from day one,” said the youngster, who would be open to a return to Castroper Straße at a later point: “I’m still young.”

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