Struggling Dortmund in upheaval ahead of German Classico against Bayern

by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Concern is growing for Borussia Dortmund after the team's disappointing exit in the UEFA Champions League playoffs.

Ahead of Saturday's "Klassiker" against Bayern Munich, the disastrous performance against Atalanta - a 4-3 aggregate loss - threatens the club's 2025-26 season goals, casts doubt on future success and complicates the sought-after contract extensions of key players.

While the reported loss of an 11 million euros reward for reaching the round of 16 creates a significant financial gap, the futures of key players like Nico Schlotterbeck and Serhou Guirassy have become uncertain.

Compounding the issue are the expiring contracts of Julian Brandt, Emre Can and Niklas Sule, while Karim Adeyemi and Felix Nmecha are reconsidering their futures in Dortmund.

Burdened by an eight-point deficit in the Bundesliga and an early exit from the German Cup, the Black and Yellows have now seen their Champions League prospects end in disappointment.

Even a victory against Bayern would provide only a small consolation, while a major squad overhaul next summer appears inevitable.

Media reports from Kicker and Bild suggest Schlotterbeck is considering leaving despite a contract offer through 2030 that includes an annual salary of 14 million euros and the team captain's armband.

The 26-year-old German international recently demanded a squad capable of winning titles and has so far not acknowledged the club's offer. Rumors persist of interest from Real Madrid.

Media reports also suggest that French striker Guirassy is considering offers from Saudi Arabian clubs.

Coach Niko Kovac called the Champions League exit "well deserved." Sporting director Sebastian Kehl said, "We spoiled several opportunities: first, to qualify for the top eight in the league phase, followed by not advancing to the round of 16 in the playoffs."

A total of 21 goals conceded in ten Champions League matches might reflect the current team's quality and mentality issues.

A dramatic late-game exit against Atalanta, followed by red-card bans for Ramy Bensebaini for a box foul and Schlotterbeck for entering the referee's review area, heightened the club's despondency.

With little time to recover before the upcoming duel against Bayern, Kehl spoke of the great significance "this game has for the entire league."

Kehl said his team must at least create tension in the national title race. The former midfielder emphasized that only a victory can change the team's trajectory.

Kehl defined the task clearly, noting that the Bayern game is the last chance to catch up. Coach Kovac emphasized the goal of securing second place in the league behind the Bavarians. ■