BVB blow: key player misses Champions League opener | OneFootball

Not good news for Borussia Dortmund: Pascal Groß will miss the Champions League opener against Juventus Turin due to illness. However, there is hope with striker Serhou Guirassy.

Borussia Dortmund faces a significant setback at the start of the Champions League group stage against Juventus Turin (Tuesday, 9 PM): Midfielder Pascal Groß is unavailable to coach Niko Kovac due to illness. The 34-year-old already missed the final training session in Dortmund-Brackel and did not travel to Italy.

Groß was in the starting lineup during the 2-0 away win in Heidenheim but was substituted in the 65th minute after a rather inconspicuous performance. Now Kovac must rearrange his midfield. Marcel Sabitzer, who was recently rested, and summer newcomer Jobe Bellingham have chances to play. Carney Chukwuemeka could also be an option but is more likely considered for substitute minutes.

There is important relief concerning Serhou Guirassy. The star striker had taken a hit to the shoulder in Heidenheim and complained of pain but was able to resume regeneration training on Sunday. The 29-year-old was also on the field during the final training session – according to BILD, his participation against Juve is considered certain. With five goals in four competitive matches, Guirassy is Dortmund's most dangerous scorer and therefore indispensable.

Champions League: BVB with a tough task against Juventus Turin

Additionally, Julian Brandt returned after hand surgery, and defensive talent Aarón Anselmino is back after muscular problems. Both could be part of the squad in Turin. Captain Emre Can (adductor problems) and defense chief Nico Schlotterbeck (recovering from a meniscus tear) also traveled but remain sidelined due to injuries. Not only the professionals are challenged in Turin on Tuesday: BVB's U19 team also competes against Juventus in the Youth League.

The task for BVB could hardly be more challenging. The Italian top club has started the Serie A with three wins from three games and shares the top of the table with SSC Napoli. Internationally, Dortmund also faces tough away games: Besides Turin, the group stage includes trips to Copenhagen, Tottenham, and Manchester City. At home, the Black and Yellows will face Villarreal, Bilbao, and Inter Milan, among others.

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