#borussia_dortmund

Arsenal vs. Borussia Dortmund: Preseason Friendly Preview Arsenal will host Borussia Dortmund in a preseason friendly at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The match marks their first home game since securing the Premier League title last season. Manager Mikel Arteta revealed his players were “fuming” after being defeated 3–1 by Real Betis in their previous friendly, a setback following a 4–1 victory over Girona in their first overseas friendly of the summer. Arteta will demand a strong response, even if the game is purely for pride. Dortmund, meanwhile, have returned from a summer tour in Japan, where they lost 1–0 to Cerezo Osaka before defeating FC Tokyo by the same scoreline. This will be their fifth friendly of the summer, but they have yet to face an opponent as formidable as Arsenal. The German side will be without several key players due to injuries and transfer market departures. Arsenal’s squad remains depleted as they recover from the physical toll of the World Cup. The Gunners are without injured defenders William Saliba and Jurriën Timber, while young midfielder Louie Copley is likely to miss the game after a concerning knee injury against Betis. Despite these absences, Arteta has options to call upon, including captain Martin Ødegaard, who may make his first appearance of the summer. Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli, who made brief cameos against Betis, are expected to play significant roles. Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga’s error-strewn performance in Dublin could prompt Arteta to experiment with summer signing Illan Meslier in goal. Dortmund’s lineup is also affected by long-term injuries, with center back Nico Schlotterbeck sidelined due to an ankle issue sustained during the World Cup. Emre Can is also unavailable after tearing his ACL in late February.#arsenal #mikel_arteta #borussia_dortmund #konstantinos_karetsas #emre_can

Karls Erlebnisdorf wird RWO-Partner Oberhausen. Kurz vor dem Freundschaftsspiel zwischen Rot-Weiß Oberhausen (RWO) und Borussia Dortmund am heutigen Samstag hat Karls Erlebnisdorf die Partnerschaft mit dem Verein offiziell besiegelt. Das Unternehmen, das mit Stammsitz in Rövershagen bei Rostock liegt, wird ab sofort als Niederrhein-Partner der Kleeblätter bekannt. Die Zusammenarbeit verbindet zwei Marken, die gemeinsam für Begeisterung und gemeinsame Erlebnisse stehen. Karls Erlebnisdorf betreibt deutschlandweit landwirtschaftlich thematisierte Freizeitparks, die jährlich mehrere Millionen Besucher begrüßen. In Kürze eröffnet auf dem Gelände des Westfield Centro Oberhausen ein neuer Standort unter dem Namen „Karls Erlebnisdorf Oberhausen“. Die Eröffnung ist für den 22. Juli geplant. Der Park umfasst etwa 46.000 Quadratmeter und wird als weiterer Standort der Marke eingestuft. Die Partnerschaft zwischen RWO und Karls Erlebnisdorf basiert auf gemeinsamen Werten wie Gemeinschaft, Emotionen und unvergessliche Momente. Beide Seiten betonen, dass echte Emotionen entstehen, wo Menschen zusammenkommen. Ob im Stadion Niederrhein oder im nahegelegenen Erlebnisdorf, steht die Verbundenheit der Menschen im Mittelpunkt. Marcus Uhlig, Vorstandsvorsitzender von RWO, begrüßte die Partnerschaft als willkommene Ergänzung zur rot-weißen Familie. Er erwähnte, dass die Zusammenarbeit mit Karls Erlebnisdorf zu den Werten und Ausrichtung des Vereins passt. Bereits zum Heimspiel gegen den BVB sollen gemeinsame Überraschungsaktionen stattfinden. Robert Dahl, Betreiber und Eigentümer von Karls Erlebnisdorf, lobte die Leidenschaft und den Einsatz des Vereins. Er betonte, dass RWO eine kultige Präsenz hat und die Leute dort das Vereinsleben mit großer Begeisterung leben.#borussia_dortmund #karls_erlebnisdorf #rot_weiss_oberhausen #rwo #westfield_centro_oberhausen

Barcelona Near Deal for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi Barcelona are close to finalizing the signing of Karim Adeyemi, a versatile Germany forward from Borussia Dortmund, according to sources confirmed to ESPN. The transfer, which has seen significant progress in negotiations, is expected to be completed in the coming days. The deal would mark Barcelona’s second major acquisition of the summer following the €70 million arrival of England winger Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United. Adeyemi, a 24-year-old attacker, is set to join the Spanish champions as part of an attacking overhaul requested by head coach Hansi Flick. The initial offer from Barcelona for Adeyemi was around €20 million, but Dortmund rejected it. However, the clubs are now finalizing an agreement valued at an initial €22 million, with additional €7 million in potential add-ons. Dortmund will also receive a percentage of any profit Barcelona generates from future transfers of Adeyemi. This financial structure reflects the Bundesliga side’s desire to secure a long-term stake in the player’s development. The signing of Adeyemi is not directly linked to Barcelona’s pursuit of a new striker to replace the outgoing Robert Lewandowski, according to sources. Instead, the club remains focused on signing Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez, who is also being pursued by other top European clubs. Flick, who previously worked with Adeyemi during his tenure as Germany’s national team coach, has emphasized the need for versatility in Barcelona’s attacking options. Adeyemi’s ability to play across three positions—striker, winger, and attacking midfielder—aligns with this strategy.#hansi_flick #barcelona #borussia_dortmund #anthony_gordon #karim_adeyemi

FC Barcelona Near Agreement to Sign Karim Adeyemi for Reduced Transfer Fee FC Barcelona is close to finalizing a transfer deal for Karim Adeyemi, the 24-year-old forward from Borussia Dortmund. According to reports, the club has reached an agreement to bring the player to the Catalan team, though the official announcement and medical clearance remain pending. Adeyemi, who joined Borussia Dortmund in July 2022, is set to move under terms that significantly reduce his estimated market value. The transfer fee is reported to be around 22 million euros, with an additional 7 million euros in variable costs tied to performance-related conditions. If these conditions are met, the total cost of the transfer could reach 29 million euros. Barcelona plans to sign Adeyemi to a five-year contract, which would secure his services for the long term. Adeyemi’s versatility as a forward is a key factor in Barcelona’s interest. The player can operate as a central striker or on the wings, offering flexibility in attacking strategies. His speed and ability to break down defensive lines have been highlighted as strengths. During his first full season with Borussia Dortmund, he made 39 appearances across all competitions, though specific goal-scoring statistics are not mentioned in the source. The deal is seen as a cost-effective acquisition, as Adeyemi’s market value is estimated at 40 million euros by Transfermarkt. By securing him for around 22 million euros plus incentives, Barcelona avoids paying the full market rate. The club’s focus on strengthening its attacking options aligns with the move, as Adeyemi’s experience in the Bundesliga and his technical skills could address potential gaps in the squad. The transfer marks another significant step in Barcelona’s efforts to reshape its roster ahead of the new season.#bundesliga #borussia_dortmund #fc_barcelona #transfermarkt #karim_adeyemi

Barcelona Rejects Borussia Dortmund's First Offer for Karim Adeyemi Barcelona has made its first formal bid for Karim Adeyemi, offering 20 million euros in fixed funds plus variable components, but Borussia Dortmund has rejected the proposal. The Bundesliga club insists the amount is insufficient, as they paid 33 million euros for the player in a previous transfer. Dortmund aims to secure a deal that matches or exceeds the initial fee, though the player’s contract with the club expires in 12 months, creating urgency for both parties. The negotiations began after Barcelona reached an agreement with Adeyemi, who expressed a clear desire to join the Catalan club. The forward, who previously played under Hansi Flick in the German national team, is familiar with the coach and has shown interest in continuing his career under his guidance. However, Dortmund has stalled the process, demanding a higher transfer fee to compensate for the player’s market value. Barcelona remains optimistic about the transfer, believing Dortmund must sell Adeyemi to avoid losing him for free in 12 months. The club’s strategy hinges on the idea that Dortmund, facing financial constraints, will prioritize a sale to secure funds. However, the timeline for a resolution remains uncertain, as Barcelona aims to finalize the deal before the start of the new season. Despite the ongoing talks, Barcelona has not ruled out alternative options. While Flick has publicly endorsed Adeyemi’s potential, the club acknowledges that the player is not an immediate starter. Lamine Yamal currently occupies the forward position, with Roony Bardghji as a backup. Adeyemi’s desire to increase his playing time has been noted, but his current contract with Dortmund means he is not under pressure to leave immediately.#hansi_flick #barcelona #borussia_dortmund #lamine_yamal #karim_adeyemi

FC Barcelona Completes Transfer of Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund The FC Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund have reached a verbal agreement for the transfer of Karim Adeyemi, with the German forward set to join the Catalan club ahead of the 2025/26 season. The deal, which satisfies both parties, involves a fixed transfer fee of 22 million euros and an additional 7 million euros in variable payments tied to Adeyemi’s achievements with Barcelona over the next five years. The 20-year-old striker, who will sign a contract until 2031, will also receive a net annual salary of six million euros. Dortmund, which initially rejected Barcelona’s first offer, has accepted the revised terms, which include a 20% share of any future transfer proceeds if Adeyemi is sold by the club. The Bundesliga side had previously valued Adeyemi at around 40 million euros, but Barcelona’s improved proposal—initially considered insufficient—has accelerated negotiations. The deal marks a significant step for Barcelona, which had identified Adeyemi as a key target to strengthen its attacking options ahead of the new season. Adeyemi, who had rejected a contract renewal offer from Dortmund in early 2025, has long expressed his desire to move to Spain. His ambition to revive his career and establish himself as a top-tier player aligned with Barcelona’s plans. The club’s director of sports, Deco, has emphasized the importance of acquiring a player with Adeyemi’s potential, balancing financial prudence with competitive ambition. Dortmund, aware of Adeyemi’s aspirations, sought to secure a substantial transfer fee to offset the loss of one of its key attacking assets. The club has also begun scouting replacements, with names like Said El Mala emerging as potential options.#borussia_dortmund #said_el_mala #fc_barcelona #karim_adeyemi #st_georges_park

Mikel Merino, the Spanish Hero of the 2026 World Cup, Returns to the International Stage Mikel Merino, the Spanish footballer hailed as the "hero of Spain," is set to play a pivotal role in the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The center midfielder, known for his crucial goal in Spain’s historic Euro 2024 campaign, is once again donning the national team jersey for the global tournament. His performance in the 2024 European Championship, where he scored the decisive 2-1 goal against Germany in a dramatic extra-time match, solidified his status as a key player in Spain’s quest for continental glory. Merino’s return to the international stage comes after a two-year absence from the World Cup due to a technical decision that excluded him from the 2022 Qatar tournament. However, his resurgence under coach Luis de la Fuente has been instrumental in Spain’s recent successes. The 2024 match against Germany, which took place on July 5, 2024, marked a defining moment in his career. With the score tied 1-1 in extra time, Merino found himself in the penalty area, where he headed a cross from Dani Olmo to secure the 2-1 victory. This goal not only secured Spain’s place in the next round but also ignited hopes of a potential title in the 2026 tournament. The goal was more than a sporting achievement; it carried personal significance for Merino. After scoring, he ran toward the corner flag, a gesture that paid tribute to his father, Miguel Merino, a former professional footballer who had made the same move in the same stadium three decades earlier. This moment underscored the deep connection between Merino’s footballing legacy and his family’s history in the sport. Born in Pamplona in 1996, Merino’s life has been intertwined with sports from an early age.#osasuna #borussia_dortmund #dani_olmo #luis_de_la_fuente #mikel_merino

Manchester United Eye Cut-Price Transfer for Germany Star Felix Nmecha Manchester United are reportedly pursuing a potential summer transfer for Germany midfielder Felix Nmecha, with intermediaries working on a “very realistic” deal that could see the 25-year-old join the club for a significantly lower fee than his current market value. The Red Devils, already set to sign Ederson from Atalanta for £35m, are seeking to bolster their midfield options as they prepare for the new season. With Casemiro departed and Manuel Ugarte linked with a move away, United are looking to add at least one more central midfielder to their squad. Nmecha, a former Manchester City academy graduate, moved to Wolfsburg in 2021 before joining Borussia Dortmund in 2023 for a fee of around £25.9m. Despite signing a new contract with Dortmund in March that extends his stay until 2030, the Bundesliga side has not deterred interest from United, who have long been admirers of the player. Sky Germany reported earlier this month that United remain in “contact” over a potential move for Nmecha, with the club also being monitored by former rivals Manchester City. The transfer speculation has intensified after reports indicated that Dortmund’s new contract for Nmecha includes a release clause of €80m (£69m) for 2027, dropping to €70m (£60m) in 2028. While Dortmund has reportedly been open to offers around the £60m mark this summer, United are believed to be exploring a cut-price deal through intermediaries. TEAMtalk claims that those working on Nmecha’s future have indicated to interested clubs that a transfer could be possible for approximately £52m, positioning the move as a “very realistic” option.#manchester_united #borussia_dortmund #wolfsburg #felix_nmecha #dortmund_release_clause

Borussia Dortmund's Transfer Plans: Contract Extensions for Key Players Borussia Dortmund’s sporting management, led by Sport-Geschäftsführer Lars Ricken and Sportdirektor Ole Book, has outlined a detailed strategy for extending contracts with several key players ahead of the 2026/27 season. The plan focuses on retaining talent while balancing financial constraints and long-term squad development. Central to the discussions is Karim Adeyemi, whose contract is set to expire in 2027, but talks remain unresolved due to significant discrepancies in salary demands. The club is actively exploring a potential sale of the player this summer to avoid having him enter the final year of his contract. Ramy Bensebaini, a 31-year-old left-back with a contract expiring in 2027, is another focal point. While Dortmund has no immediate urgency to extend his deal, the club is monitoring his performance and age, as Bensebaini is unlikely to command a high transfer fee. Talks about a new contract are scheduled for late 2026 or early 2027, with the player’s annual salary of around €4 million being a key factor. Similarly, Marcel Sabitzer, a 32-year-old midfielder with a contract ending in 2027, faces a similar situation. The club is not under pressure to extend his contract immediately, as Sabitzer’s €7 million annual salary makes him one of the highest earners in the squad. However, if Sabitzer wishes to stay beyond 2027, he would need to accept reduced pay and demonstrate consistent top-level performance. Julian Ryerson, a 28-year-old right-back with a contract set to expire in 2028, is considered a priority for extension. The Norwegian, who scored 15 league goals in the 2025/26 season, is expected to be part of the club’s long-term plans. Discussions are planned to begin in the autumn of 2026.#borussia_dortmund #karim_adeyemi #ramy_bensebaini #marcel_sabitzer #julian_ryerson

Nico Schlotterbeck Set for Second FIFA World Cup Appearance with Germany Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck is poised to make his second FIFA World Cup appearance as Germany face debutant Curacao in their Group E opener. The 26-year-old, known for his commanding presence and tactical intelligence, will be a key figure for the German national team on the global stage. Schlotterbeck’s performance with Dortmund in the 2025-26 Bundesliga season has positioned him as a critical player for both club and country, with his versatility and attacking contributions making him a standout asset. Schlotterbeck’s attributes as a center-back are highlighted by his physicality, positional awareness, and ability to initiate play from the back. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, he uses his frame to dominate aerial duels and disrupt opponents’ attacks. His aggressive tackling and game-reading skills were instrumental in his 4.5 clearances per game for Dortmund last season. Beyond defense, Schlotterbeck’s offensive capabilities are notable, as he frequently delivers long, diagonal passes to wingers, creating opportunities for his teammates. His five goals in the Bundesliga during the 2025-26 campaign further underscore his dual threat as both a defender and playmaker. The German national team will rely on Schlotterbeck’s defensive solidity to neutralize threats from Group E opponents, including Ecuador’s Enner Valencia and Ivory Coast’s Nicolas Pepe. His experience from the 2022 World Cup, where he played the full 90 minutes against Japan and made a substitute appearance against Spain, has prepared him for high-pressure matches. However, his World Cup debut in 2022 was cut short when Germany exited in the group stage after a loss to Costa Rica.#curacao #borussia_dortmund #germany #fifa_world_cup #nico_schlotterbeck

Felix Nmecha Set for World Cup Debut as Germany Face Curacao in Opening Match Germany will open their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign tonight against debutants Curacao in what appears to be a heavily favored match on paper. The team, which failed to advance past the group stages in the last two World Cup tournaments, aims to secure a crucial three-point victory to strengthen their chances of progressing further in the competition. Head coach Julian Naglesmann is expected to deploy a strong starting XI for the Houston Stadium clash, with all key players available for selection. Among the standout performers likely to feature is Felix Nmecha, a Borussia Dortmund star who has been included in the starting lineup for pre-tournament friendlies against Finland and the United States. Nmecha, a 25-year-old box-to-box midfielder, is known for his technical skill, tactical awareness, and ability to drive forward rather than settling for simple lateral passes. His physical attributes, including a tall frame, allow him to shield the backline effectively and dominate aerial duels. In the 2025-26 Bundesliga season, Nmecha recorded 108 ball recoveries, showcasing his work rate and ability to disrupt opponents’ attacks. His aerial prowess is particularly notable, with a 63% success rate in contested duels. Additionally, Nmecha has proven himself as a threat from distance, scoring five goals and providing three assists for Dortmund during the same campaign. These performances have earned him a place in Germany’s World Cup squad, marking his debut on the global stage. Nmecha’s international career has been marked by a mix of promise and challenges. He initially represented both England and Germany at the youth level before choosing Germany for his senior debut in a 3-2 friendly loss to Belgium in March 2023.#curacao #borussia_dortmund #germany #felix_nmecha #julian_naglesmann

Nico Schlotterbeck Hopes Germany's Team Energy Translates to World Cup Success Nico Schlotterbeck, the 26-year-old central defender for Borussia Dortmund, has expressed confidence in Germany’s ability to harness a strong team dynamic ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As a key member of the national team’s backline, Schlotterbeck emphasized the unique bond forming within the squad, calling it the best team energy he has experienced since becoming a Germany player. The player, preparing for his second World Cup, highlighted the camaraderie both on and off the pitch, noting how the group’s support for one another has created a positive atmosphere that he believes will translate into success. Schlotterbeck praised the leadership of coach Julian Nagelsmann, citing the squad’s collective determination to perform at their best. “Hopefully, this energy will translate onto the pitch because it will motivate everyone to go the extra mile to support their teammates,” he said. The defender also reflected on the team’s progress since the disappointing 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Germany failed to advance beyond the group stage. He described the current squad as “significantly stronger,” pointing to their recent nine-match winning streak and the ability to challenge even top-tier teams like France. The player acknowledged the importance of learning from past failures, including the 2022 exit. “I would of course prefer to undo that experience, but it was very important for my career because it helped me mature as a character,” Schlotterbeck admitted. He also drew a personal connection to the World Cup, recalling his childhood memories of the 2006 tournament in Germany. A chance encounter with Oliver Neuville, the assistant coach at Borussia Mönchengladbach, reignited those memories.#borussia_mnchengladbach #borussia_dortmund #julian_nagelsmann #2026_fifa_world_cup #nico_schlotterbeck

Gonzalo García Debuta Con España y Se Abre Camino a Transferencia Gonzalo García realizó su debut como jugador absoluto con la selección española durante un amistoso previo al Mundial, enfrentando a Irak en La Coruña. El delantero del Real Madrid fue introducido por el entrenador Luis de la Fuente en el segundo tiempo, sustituyendo a Borja Iglesias. Este partido marcó un hito en la carrera del jugador, quien ha sido convocado para formar parte del grupo de apoyo del combinado nacional antes del Mundial. Aunque fue incluido en la prelista de España, no fue seleccionado en la convocatoria definitiva de 26 futbolistas que disputarán la cita mundialista. García, uno de los líderes de la selección española sub-21, ahora da un paso más al alcanzar la selección absoluta. El entrenador de la selección, Luis de la Fuente, ha destacado su calidad, capacidad goleadora y personalidad dentro y fuera del campo. Sin embargo, su ausencia en la lista final del Mundial se debe a la falta de minutos que le han concedido Xabi Alonso y Álvaro Arbeloa en el Real Madrid durante esta temporada. El futuro de Gonzalo García está prácticamente decidido. A menos que ocurra un giro inesperado, el delantero no formará parte de la primera plantilla del Real Madrid la próxima temporada. El club ha iniciado movimientos para buscar un destino para el jugador, ya que considera que ha llegado el momento de que emprenda una nueva etapa lejos del Santiago Bernabéu. García tiene varios pretendientes, tanto dentro como fuera de España. Equipos como Getafe, Villarreal, Valencia y Real Sociedad han estado monitorizando su situación, viéndolo como una oportunidad atractiva en el mercado nacional.#real_madrid #borussia_dortmund #gonzalo_garcia #luis_de_la_fuente #mundial

Liverpool FC Faces Uncertainty as Konaté's Departure Threatens Squad Stability Liverpool FC is preparing for a significant upheaval in its defensive line as centre-back Ibrahima Konaté prepares to leave the club on a free transfer after failing to agree on a contract extension. The 27-year-old, who joined the Reds for €40 million from RB Leipzig in 2019, will depart after five years with no long-term deal in place. Reports from Sky and the Daily Mail indicate that the player’s exit has been accelerated by stalled negotiations, leaving Liverpool to address a critical gap in its backline. Konaté, who has been a key figure in Liverpool’s defense alongside captain Virgil van Dijk, had previously expressed optimism about a new contract. In April, he told L'Equipe that talks were “on the right track,” and he reiterated his commitment to the club. However, the situation has shifted dramatically, with Konaté now set to leave after the World Cup. His next destination remains uncertain, though Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have emerged as leading candidates. Despite PSG’s first-choice options—Willian Pacho and captain Marquinhos—Konaté’s potential move to the French capital has gained traction. The departure of Konaté will have immediate consequences for Liverpool, which already faces challenges in its center-back options. New signing Giovanni Leoni is sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury, leaving Joe Gomez as the sole fit backup to van Dijk. This scarcity has forced the Reds to consider signing at least one more center-back, potentially triggering a chain reaction that could impact Borussia Dortmund. Dortmund, already navigating its own transfer dynamics, may lose Schlotterbeck if Liverpool pursues him.#real_madrid #borussia_dortmund #liverpool_fc #virgil_van_dijk #ibrahima_konate

BVB Seeks Extra Recovery Day in Clash Against Hoffenheim Borussia Dortmund’s upcoming match against TSG Hoffenheim carries significant implications for the club’s Champions League qualification hopes, with a potential victory securing an additional recovery day for the squad. Coach Niko Kovac emphasized the strategic importance of the game, noting that a win would allow the team to claim a second free day in the training schedule, a tactic previously used to manage player fatigue during the season. The decision to prioritize rest over immediate results reflects the Bundesliga side’s focus on maintaining peak performance as the season enters its final stretch. The match, scheduled for Saturday at 15:30 Uhr, will determine whether Dortmund can extend their lead in the race for the Champions League spots. Currently, the club trails Bayern Munich by 12 points but holds an eight-point advantage over third-place VfB Stuttgart. Kovac acknowledged the near-certainty of qualification but stressed the need for continued effort, stating, “We have to stretch ourselves to achieve this.” A win against Hoffenheim would bring Dortmund closer to securing their place in the competition, with Kovac calling it “a really good performance” if realized. Hoffenheim, despite recent struggles in their four Bundesliga matches, remains a formidable opponent. Kovac praised their high-intensity style of play, noting their strength in transitions and the quality of their attacking options. “They are a team that plays vertically and has many good players with high technical ability,” he said. This assessment underscores the challenge Dortmund faces, even as they aim to capitalize on their previous success against the club.#champions_league #borussia_dortmund #niko_kovac #tsf_hoffenheim #borussia_dortmund_squad

Borussia Dortmund Fans Pfiffen Nico Schlotterbeck Nach Vertragsverlängerung Nico Schlotterbeck, der 26-jährige Nationalspieler von Borussia Dortmund, wurde am Samstag im Bundesligaspiel gegen Bayer Leverkusen von Teilen der Dortmunder Fans ausgepfiffen. Die Reaktionen standen im Fokus, nachdem der Verein am Freitag bekanntgegeben hatte, dass Schlotterbeck seinen Vertrag bis 2031 verlängert hat. Die Vertragsbedingungen enthielten eine Ausstiegsklausel, die bereits ab diesem Sommer und für ausgewählte Vereine gilt. Laut Berichten könnte die Ablöse in diesem Fall zwischen 50 und 60 Millionen Euro liegen. Die Fans reagierten sichtbar auf die Klausel, die Schlotterbeck ermöglicht, bereits im Sommer den Verein zu verlassen. Während der Verkündung der Startformation für das Spiel gegen Leverkusen mischten sich unter den Applausen auch Pfiffe. Die Reaktionen wurden als Zeichen der Unzufriedenheit interpretiert, da die Klausel den Eindruck erweckt, dass Schlotterbeck bereits vor Vertragsende einen Ausstieg planen könnte. Borussia Dortmunds neuer Sportdirektor Ole Book äußerte sich zu den Vertragsdetails nicht. Stattdessen betonte er die Bedeutung von Schlotterbecks Verlängerung: „Nico hat das Zeichen gesetzt, dass er hier bleiben möchte. Wir haben ein starkes Vertrauensverhältnis zu ihm und werden uns nicht zu den Vertragsinhalten äußern.“ Book verwies auf die „guten und starken Gespräche“ und betonte, dass Schlotterbeck „lange bei uns bleiben möchte“. Sami Khedira, ehemaliger Weltmeister und Fußball-Experte, analysierte die Situation: „Die Klausel an sich ist nicht das Schlimme. Die Problematik liegt darin, dass sie bereits im Sommer gilt. Wenn man einen Vertrag unterzeichnet und drei Monate später den Verein verlassen könnte, ist das für die Fans unerträglich.#borussia_dortmund #nico_schlotterbeck #ole_book #borussia_dortmund_fans #sami_khedira

Borussia Dortmund Extends Nico Schlotterbeck's Contract Until 2031 Borussia Dortmund has extended the contract of defender Nico Schlotterbeck (26) until 2031. The German national team player signed his new agreement on Friday at the club’s headquarters. The club’s spokesperson, Carsten Cramer, emphasized the significance of the contract extension, stating that Schlotterbeck is a vital asset both as a player and a person. Cramer noted that Schlotterbeck fully understands the value of the club and is committed to its growth, expressing pride in securing the extension before his current contract expires in 2024. Schlotterbeck joined Borussia Dortmund from SC Freiburg in 2022 and has since made 155 competitive appearances for the club. During his tenure, he has scored 10 goals and provided 18 assists, showcasing his versatility as an attacking midfielder. His contributions have been instrumental in the team’s success, and he has also represented Germany at the international level, earning 25 caps since his debut in 2022. Lars Ricken, the club’s sporting director, highlighted Schlotterbeck’s leadership qualities, both within the team and for the national squad. Ricken praised Schlotterbeck’s resilience after recovering from a serious injury, noting his determination and skill as key factors in his return to top form. He expressed confidence in Schlotterbeck’s ability to continue developing and becoming an indispensable part of the club’s future. The discussions between the club and Schlotterbeck were characterized by mutual respect and trust, which Ricken said was crucial in finalizing the agreement. BVB’s sporting director, Ole Book, praised Schlotterbeck as one of the club’s top defensive midfielders.#borussia_dortmund #nico_schlotterbeck #carsten_cramer #lars_ricken #ole_book

Leverkusen mit größter Gästekulisse der Bundesliga-Saison beim BVB Bayer 04 Leverkusen hat zum dritten Mal in der Bundesliga-Saison als Deutscher Meister ein Auswärtsspiel beim Borussia Dortmund bestritten. Die Partie am 29. Spieltag stand unter dem Zeichen der größten Gästekulisse der Saison für die Werkself. Obwohl das komplette Gästekontingent nicht ausgeschöpft wurde, sorgten die Fans für einen Rekord an Zuschauern im Ausland. Die Mannschaft von Trainer Kasper Hjulmand traf auf eine der stärksten Zuschauerzahlen der Saison. Die Meisterschaft 2024 hat bei Leverkusen einen deutlichen Fan-Ansturm ausgelöst. Seit der Titelgewinn in der Saison 2023/24 waren alle Bundesliga-Heimspiele ausverkauft. Auch in der Fremde sorgen die Fans der Werkself für deutlich vollere Gästeblöcke als in den Jahren zuvor. In den beiden vorangegangenen Auswärtsspielen gegen den BVB reisten jeweils über 8.500 Fans nach Dortmund. In dieser Partie war das Gästekontingent jedoch nicht vollständig ausverkauft. Aus Leverkusen kamen am Samstag 6.100 Fans nach Dortmund, was weniger als beim DFB-Pokal-Duell im Dezember 2023 war, als 7.100 Fans des Pokalsiegers in Dortmund anwesend waren. Dennoch war dies der größte Gästeblock der Saison. Die bisher größte Gästekulisse für Leverkusen in der Bundesliga-Saison war beim Auswärtsspiel beim FC Bayern München. In der Auswärtsfahrertabelle rangiert Leverkusen auf dem 10. Platz mit einem Durchschnitt von 3.100 Fans pro Auswärtsspiel. Der Gästeblock war zu 78,5 Prozent ausgelastet, was ebenfalls Platz 10 im Bundesligavergleich entspricht. Die Tabelle der Auswärtsfahrer zeigt, dass Leverkusen in der laufenden Saison den zweiten Platz nach Frankfurt (13.000 Fans) belegt. Andere Teams wie Hamburger SV (12.000) und FC Bayern (10.000) erreichten höhere Zahlen.#champions_league #bayer_04_leverkusen #borussia_dortmund #dfb_pokal #dfb_pokal_duell

Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund Secure Last-Minute Bundesliga Wins Bayern Munich avoided a second consecutive defeat of the season in the 28th round of the Bundesliga, overturning a 2-0 deficit against Freiburg to win 3-2 in dramatic fashion. The Bavarian giants, missing their top scorer due to injury, extended their lead at the top of the table. The match saw Freiburg take an early 2-0 lead, but Bayern’s young talents delivered late heroics. Tom Bischof, a 20-year-old forward, equalized twice with long-range shots in the 81st and 92nd minutes, while 18-year-old Lennart Karl secured the win with a goal in the 99th minute. This marked Bayern’s 94th and 95th goals of the season, bringing them closer to the 1971/72 record of 100 goals. The Swiss forward Johan Manzambi played a key role for Freiburg, scoring the second goal in the 17th minute after a defensive error by Bayern. Manzambi, who previously scored against Bayern in November, now has half his season goals against the Bavarian side. Freiburg’s Lucas Höler missed two clear chances in the 52nd and 54th minutes, with the decisive goal coming from a set piece in the 71st minute. Borussia Dortmund followed suit, securing a last-minute 2-0 victory over Stuttgart. Karim Adeyemi and Julian Brandt netted in the 94th and 96th minutes, respectively, to keep Dortmund in second place. Despite dominating much of the match, the Bundesliga leaders struggled to convert chances, with Dortmund’s late goals ensuring they remain nine points behind Bayern. Mainz made a remarkable turnaround under new manager Urs Fischer, moving up to ninth place with a nine-point lead over the 16th-placed St. Pauli. The Swiss coach, who took charge in December, led Mainz to 27 points in 15 games after starting the season with six points from 13 matches.#bayern_munich #borussia_dortmund #freiburg #stuttgart #mainz

Niko Kovac: „Der HSV wird sich seine Chance suchen“ Der Trainer des Bundesliga-Clubs Borussia Dortmund, Niko Kovac, wird am Sonnabend (21. März) in einem Topspiel gegen seinen ehemaligen Verein HSV antreten. Die Begegnung hat für Kovac besondere Bedeutung, da er zwischen 1999 und 2001 als Spieler für die HSV-Rothosen spielte. In dieser Zeit absolvierte er 73 Pflichtspiele, erzielte 13 Tore und gab fünf Vorlagen. Die Erinnerungen an diese Zeit sind für Kovac lebendig, besonders an die Atmosphäre in Hamburg und die Erfolge mit dem Verein. In seiner ersten Saison bei HSV erreichte der Club die Champions League nach einem dritten Platz in der Bundesliga. Ein Highlight dieser Zeit war das berühmte 4:4-Unentschieden gegen Juventus Turin im September 2000. Kovac war Teil dieser Partie und traf sogar zum zwischenzeitlichen 4:3 mit einer Hereingabe von Medhi Mahdavikia. „Es war eines der prägendsten und spannendsten Spiele meiner Karriere. Die Atmosphäre war unglaublich“, erinnert sich Kovac. Obwohl Kovac seit 2001 nicht mehr für HSV spielte, bleibt er dem Verein verbunden. Er hat in den letzten zwei Jahrzehnten gelegentlich Kontakt zu ehemaligen Kollegen, darunter auch seinen jetzigen Co-Trainer Filip Tapalovic, der zwischen 2021 und 2024 bei HSV als Assistent von Tim Walter arbeitete. Das Bundesliga-Topspiel gegen HSV ist für Kovac keine gewöhnliche Begegnung. Nach dem 1:1-Unentschieden im Hinrundenspiel im Volkspark erwartet er von HSV eine kompakte, defensiv gut organisierte Mannschaft. „Der HSV spielt als Aufsteiger eine gute Saison und wird sich auch bei uns seine Chance suchen“, sagt Kovac. Er lobt die Leistung der Rothosen und erwähnt, dass kroatische Spieler wie Luka Vuskovic beim HSV stets einen guten Eindruck hinterlassen hätten.#borussia_dortmund #niko_kovac #hsv #filip_tapalovic #tim_walter