Marcel Schmelzer leaves Borussia Dortmund after two decades of service | OneFootball

After more than two decades, Marcel Schmeltzer separates with Borussia Dortmund as he leaves the U23 team to take a break. The 38-year-old was part of the coaching team led by Daniel Rios.

The departure of the two-time Bundesliga winner was a bit of a surprise for the general public. However, the former fullback was dwelling on it for quite some time. "I personally have planned this for a long time,” said Schmelzer in an interview with Ruhr Nachrichten.

"Even those responsible knew that I was taking a break after the end of the contract to take care of the family. That's exactly my priority now."

Schmelzer first joined the U17 coaching team before his promotion to the U23 team in 2024. He didn’t make clear whether he’ll return to Dortmund or the length of the break. Kicker noted that he’s still currently working on obtaining his UEFA A coaching license.

BVB prepared parting gifts for him and physiotherapist Daniel Zolinski ahead of the last home game of the season for the U23s against Köln (1-1). They will end their campaign away at SC Wiedenbrück.

Borussia Dortmund II are currently fourth in Regionalliga West, tied on points with third-placed Schalke II and fifth Borussia Mönchengladbach II. Luca Reggiani, Filippo Mane, and Samuele Inácio have also featured multiple times for the first team this term.

The fan favorite Schmelzer spent his entire playing career at Dortmund as he featured in 367 games in all competitions. In addition to back-to-back Meisterschale in 2011 and 2012, he has won the DFB-Pokal three times.