BVB face travel marathon, Ohne Schlotterbeck in Norway

Borussia Dortmund launch a demanding phase of travel, covering roughly 11 300 kilometres in six days, and have announced that centre‑back Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the Champions‑League tie in Bodø because of load‑management. The decision comes as sport director Lars Ricken outlines a schedule that includes a match in Norway, a quick return to Germany, a Bundesliga game in Berlin and another away fixture in Azerbaijan.

Contract extension and coaching continuity

On the same day, the club confirmed a new contract for head coach Niko Kovac, extending his deal to 2029. Ricken said the aim was to set a “sign of continuity” on the coaching side. Kovac, 54, has overseen 53 Bundesliga matches, earning 114 points at an average of 2.15 points per game – the highest in BVB history, second only to Thomas Tuchel in the modern era.

Season context and squad rotation

After five league games Dortmund sit level on points with SC Freiburg in second place, having drawn 2‑2 with Werder Bremen last Friday. Ricken warned that the upcoming fixtures are “no fun” but a “big challenge”, especially on the artificial turf in Bodø where temperatures hover just above zero and feel like minus seven. He added that the club will rest Schlotterbeck to manage his workload after the defender suffered a hamstring tear at the World Cup and returned only to re‑injure himself in the national team.

BVB lets Schlotterbeck rest in the Champions League duel against Bodø

The club’s broader platform continues to promote its “News Transfers & Gerüchte” service, offering community gaming recommendations, premium support and video analysis for agents and advisors. The latest updates are posted in the “Neueste Transfers” forum, where all news and market‑value analysis are discussed. The BVB’s online presence also features a “Service Video” section that showcases recent matches and tactical breakdowns.

Ricken concluded that the travel schedule, which includes a match in Bodø, a quick flight back, a Bundesliga clash in Berlin and a trip to Azerbaijan, will test the squad’s depth. He reiterated that the club’s focus remains on strengthening the team and maintaining confidence despite the demanding itinerary.

Football news: Dortmund signs Kovac until 2029, Carvajal to Getafe