BVB lets Schlotterbeck rest in the Champions League duel against Bodø

On Tuesday evening, Borussia Dortmund is on a plane to the Norwegian FK Bodø/Glimt, but the central defender Nico Schlotterbeck remains out due to ongoing injury problems – a clear signal that load management takes priority.

Schlotterbeck a permanent fixture in Dortmund’s defence since 2022

The international has been with Borussia Dortmund since the summer of 2022 and quickly established himself as the tactical leader of the BVB defence. However, he has repeatedly been set back by injuries and ailments, as AFP reported.

Decision to rest before the match in Bodø

Sporting director Lars Ricken explained at Dortmund Airport that the club is giving the defender a rest for the Champions League clash in Bodø. Coach Niko Kovač later confirmed on site that the match is “not so suitable” for Schlotterbeck’s sore ankle.

BVB travel to Norway without Schlotterbeck – fight for third point

Intensive travel schedule strains the squad

Ahead of the away match, BVB still have three more away games, which require 11 000 flight kilometres within seven days. Ricken described the week as “crazy” and emphasized that the game on the artificial turf is “no great fun”.

Further injury‑related uncertainties

Julian Ryerson, who was also recently injured, remains “uncertain”, according to Ricken, whether he will be available for the Norwegian duel.