Dortmund Defenders Schlotterbeck and Süle Skip Augsburg Trip
Borussia Dortmund faces significant defensive challenges ahead of their trip to Augsburg. Key defenders Nico Schlotterbeck and Niklas Süle will miss the match. Schlotterbeck is sidelined due to a minor cold, while Süle is dealing with toe issues.
Dortmund’s Defensive Reshuffle
Despite the setbacks, Dortmund has had a strong run lately, winning all three matches since their 1-2 defeat to Bayern Munich. In their DFB-Pokal match against Eintracht Frankfurt, Dortmund triumphed 4-2 in a penalty shootout.
Injury Updates and Lineup Changes
Ramy Bensebaini was absent from the last match due to back problems. However, he is expected to return for the Augsburg game, providing a much-needed boost. Aaron Anselmino, who replaced Bensebaini in the previous match, delivered a solid performance, marking his first start after a lengthy injury layoff.
- Nico Schlotterbeck: Out with a cold
- Niklas Süle: Suffering from toe issues
- Ramy Bensebaini: Expected to return
- Aaron Anselmino: First start after a long injury recovery
With Schlotterbeck and Süle unavailable, Dortmund’s defensive lineup is expected to feature Anselmino, along with Waldemar Anton, referred to as the “Ironman” by coach Niko Kovac, and Bensebaini. This trio has only played together in the starting lineup once, during the second matchday against Union Berlin.
Emre Can’s Return
In midfield, Borussia Dortmund welcomes back captain Emre Can, who is set to join the squad after recovering from prolonged adductor issues. His absence has been felt since the end of last season, including missing the Club World Cup.
With the rigorous schedule, it is anticipated that coach Kovac may make more adjustments to manage player fatigue. He had previously implemented five changes against Frankfurt, reaffirming the need for rotation to maintain team intensity.
