BVB future uncertain? Schlotterbeck speaks out on release clause | OneFootball

After extending his contract with Borussia Dortmund, Nico Schlotterbeck’s release clause continues to fuel debate. Now the BVB star has spoken publicly for the first time about the speculation surrounding his future.

Nico Schlotterbeck has publicly commented for the first time on the much-discussed release clause in his new contract with Borussia Dortmund. As part of the German national team’s preparations for the World Cup, the center-back made it clear that his focus is currently solely on the tournament. “What do you mean by a shop window? I play 50 games all year,” Schlotterbeck said when asked by BILD. The 26-year-old also stressed: “Putting myself in the shop window because of a World Cup – that’s not how I see it.”

The Germany international had only extended his contract with BVB until 2031 at the beginning of April. However, the new deal is said to include a release clause that could already come into effect this summer. According to BILD, selected top European clubs such as Real Madrid, Liverpool, or Barcelona would be allowed to sign the defender for a transfer fee between €50 million and €60 million.

The fact that the clause became public shortly after the contract extension sparked discussion around Borussia Dortmund. Parts of the fanbase in particular reacted angrily and greeted Schlotterbeck’s appearance in the Bundesliga match against Bayer Leverkusen (0–1) with whistles.

Schlotterbeck speaks about whistles from BVB fans

The defender has now described his side of the situation for the first time. “I didn’t notice the whistles before the game at all because I wasn’t out there yet,” said Schlotterbeck. He also barely noticed anything during the match: “Of course, that wasn’t what I had hoped for. Everyone can express whatever they want.”

Photo: IMAGO

Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Schlotterbeck did not want to make a clear commitment to BVB. Instead, he once again emphasized his focus on the World Cup with the German national team. “I’m clearly focusing on the World Cup, of course, and trying to put in good performances for Germany,” the center-back explained.

What is also clear, however, is that strong performances on the big World Cup stage would likely further increase Schlotterbeck’s appeal to Europe’s top clubs. In the Germany squad, the Dortmund player is expected to form the first-choice center-back pairing with Jonathan Tah and play a key role in the bid for the World Cup title.

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