Nico Schlotterbeck Reflects on Title Race and Personal Setbacks

Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has offered further insights regarding his team’s prospects in the Bundesliga title race. Despite his earlier assertion that BVB was back in contention against league leaders Bayern Munich, club officials expressed reservations about his comments. Nevertheless, Schlotterbeck reiterated his confidence during an interview on Saturday afternoon.

In Dortmund’s recent narrow victory over Wolfsburg, which ended 1-2, Schlotterbeck’s performance was less than ideal. His handball in the 51st minute resulted in Wolfsburg equalizing from a set piece. Additionally, the yellow card he received—his fifth of the season—will result in a suspension for the upcoming Bundesliga match against Mainz next Friday.

“That hurts a lot,” Schlotterbeck remarked about his suspension while speaking with Sky Germany. “I’m the captain when Emré Can is unavailable, and I have to set the tone. We played a strong first half today but struggled in the second. That’s how football goes sometimes. They pressed us hard, and we were fortunate to concede only one goal during that period.”

Schlotterbeck’s earlier comments expressing confidence in Dortmund’s ability to challenge Bayern prompted club officials to temper his enthusiasm. In his most recent statements, the 26-year-old adopted a more measured approach, although his determination remained evident.

“We demonstrated today what has been lacking for years: mentality,” Schlotterbeck told Sky. “We possess the individual quality to influence matches. It is crucial that we maintain our focus and believe we can ascend the table. I certainly hope my words had a positive impact and contributed to the team’s victory. The players recognized my passion for the title race.”