Borussia Dortmund could have up to six absences against Heidenheim in the Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund could be without up to six key players when they face Heidenheim on Saturday (13), as coach Niko Kovac looks to guide his team back into rhythm after the international break.
Kovac’s Squad Hit by Injuries
The Aurinegros return to action in the 3rd round of the Bundesliga, kicking off at 10:30 a.m. (Brasília time) at the Voith-Arena. Injuries continue to trouble the squad:
- Emre Can, Duranville, and Niklas Süle remain sidelined.
- Fábio Silva, a recent signing, is not yet fit.
- Julian Brandt, who has featured in every match this season, is a doubt following recent hand surgery.
Defender Nico Schlotterbeck has rejoined team training after five months out with a serious injury but will not be rushed back. “He needs time to get fully ready. A defender must win individual duels, and for that, he has to be 100%,” Kovac explained.
Expected Lineup vs. Heidenheim
Despite the absences, Dortmund is set to line up with:
Kobel; Anselmino, Anton, Bensebaini; Yan Couto, Groß, Sabitzer, Svensson, Jobe Bellingham; Guirassy, Beier (or Adeyemi).
Kovac acknowledged the challenge of reuniting his squad post-FIFA date: “We haven’t trained together in two weeks, but we have the necessary quality. I’m demanding because our ambition is to consolidate ourselves at the top.”
Heidenheim Struggling at the Bottom
While Dortmund seeks a third-round victory to stay among the Bundesliga’s top four, Heidenheim are in desperate need of points after losing their first two matches. “They’re a physical side that will push us hard. We must be decisive,” Kovac warned.
