Borussia Dortmund face a raft of injury doubts ahead of their Bundesliga match against Werder Bremen on Friday, with Nico Schlotterbeck among those uncertain to feature. The defender was forced to leave the Germany national team camp after sustaining an injury in training, according to head coach Niko Kovac.
On Wednesday, Kovac provided an update on his squad’s fitness following the international break, revealing that Schlotterbeck has been working individually and is scheduled to train with the team on Thursday. “The plan is for him to train with the team tomorrow. Then we’ll see whether he is ready to play or not,” Kovac said. “Anyone who knows ‘Schlotti’ knows that he always wants to play. He has that ambition.”
Other players returning from international duty are also doubtful. Wing-backs Julian Ryerson and Daniel Svensson, along with attacking prospect Konstantinos Karetsas, have all been described as “a little under the weather.” Kovac noted that Mathis Albert is set to return from America imminently, while Carney Chukwuemeka has brought back minor muscular issues. “We also don’t know yet if Julian [Ryerson] will be fit in time for the weekend,” Kovac added.
The international break compressed four matches into a short period, which Kovac criticised for its impact on player fitness and recovery. “It was definitely too much to have to play four matches, with all the travelling involved,” he said, reflecting on the demands placed on the squad.
Kovac also touched on the competitive nature of the UEFA Nations League fixtures compared to the previous system of friendlies. “You have to pick up points,” he said. “Personally, I preferred the old system. It’s not about us; it’s about the fact that the players are facing a completely different level of workload and need to be managed in a completely different way.”
The injury concerns come as Dortmund prepare to face a Werder Bremen side that will test their defensive stability. Schlotterbeck, who has been a regular fixture in Dortmund’s backline, could be a significant absence if he is not ready to play.
Meanwhile, Ryerson and Svensson’s availability remains uncertain, with Kovac indicating that their fitness will be assessed closer to the matchday. Karetsas, a young attacking talent, also faces doubts, which could affect Dortmund’s options in forward positions.
The return of Mathis Albert from America adds some depth, but Kovac’s comments suggest the squad is stretched thin due to the recent schedule. Carney Chukwuemeka’s minor muscular problem is another factor for the coaching staff to consider when finalising their lineup.
Dortmund’s next Bundesliga fixture against Werder Bremen is scheduled for Friday evening, and the team’s injury situation will be clearer after Thursday’s training session. Kovac’s remarks underline the challenges of managing player fitness in a packed season calendar.
According to Yahoo Sports.
