Crisis at Borussia Dortmund: Key Absences Against Barcelona in the Champions League 2024-25

Poor news for Borussia Dortmund ahead of the clash against FC Barcelona in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League 2024-25 quarter-finals. Niko Kovač's team will have to face a complicated situation due to numerous absences from various physical setbacks, especially in their defense, which could be seriously affected in this crucial match.

The latest addition to the injury list is Nico Schlotterbeck, a 25-year-old central defender, who has been a pillar in the Borussia Dortmund defense. In fact, the '4' of the German team had played every minute in the current edition of the UEFA Champions League.

Nico Schlotterbeck's statistics for the 2024-25 season:

• Matches 🥅: 37
• Goals ⚽: 0
• Assists 👟: 6
• Minutes played ⌚: 3,274'

Unfortunately, Schlotterbeck suffered a meniscus tear in his left knee, which will keep him out of action not only for the match against FC Barcelona but also for the rest of the 2024-25 season. This absence was confirmed by the club through their social media.

ℹ️ Tough news to close out the season: Nico Schlotterbeck has sustained a meniscus tear in his left knee and will be sidelined for the remainder of the campaign. pic.twitter.com/ki3zfAZLwb

— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) April 7, 2025

Niko Kovač will have to 'juggle' to reshape his defense

The absence of Schlotterbeck adds to the previous injuries of Niklas Süle and Filippo Mané, leaving Waldemar Anton as the only natural central defender available. This will force Niko Kovač to modify his tactical scheme.

It is likely that the Croatian coach will resort to a three-player defense, as he did in the last Bundesliga match against SC Freiburg (4-1), using Rami Bensebaini, who usually plays as a left-back. However, it has been reported that the Algerian may arrive physically affected after suffering discomfort in the aforementioned match against the Freiburg team.

Kovač may also employ Emre Can, who, although a regular pivot, has been used as a central defender when needed. Additionally, the Croatian coach can call upon Salih Özcan if he requires an emergency alternative to reinforce the back line.

More absences at Borussia Dortmund

The Borussia Dortmund is not only suffering from absences in defense but is also deprived of Marcel Sabitzer, who will not be able to play due to a knee injury. Furthermore, Pascal Groß is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, further limiting Kovač's options in the midfield.

With so many key absences, Borussia Dortmund arrives at the match against FC Barcelona in a delicate situation. Kovač's ability to adjust his strategy will be put to the test in this important quarter-final clash of the UEFA Champions League. Will the Blaugrana be able to exploit these weaknesses and take advantage of the situation?