Borussia Dortmund Faces Challenging Play-Off Against Atalanta Amid Injury Struggles

Momentum vs. Adversity

Momentum can significantly impact a team’s performance, but it requires perseverance during difficult times. For Borussia Dortmund, the upcoming Champions League play-off against Atalanta Bergamo highlights this challenge: maintaining their domestic confidence in the face of a growing injury crisis in defense.

Domestic Confidence

Following six straight victories in the Bundesliga, Dortmund heads into this European fixture with a revitalized sense of belief. However, the timing of this crucial match couldn’t be more challenging.

Defensive Challenges

The absence of several key defenders has prompted coach Niko Kovač to devise alternative strategies just when the stakes are heightened. When discussing his squad’s center-back situation, Kovač did not hold back.

“Currently, we have four center-backs sidelined due to injury,” the coach stated.

He elaborated, “Filippo Mané and Emre Can have been out for a few weeks. Niklas Süle suffered a thigh strain in our last match, which is why he was substituted at halftime, and Schlotterbeck is also struggling with muscle issues, making him unavailable for tomorrow’s match.”

With Nico Schlotterbeck, Niklas Süle, Emre Can, and Filippo Mané all missing from the lineup, Dortmund needs to quickly adapt its defensive plan. Instead of focusing on their absences, Kovač emphasized the importance of finding solutions.

“That’s part of a coach’s responsibilities—to always be inventive and address such situations. We’ve demonstrated that we can adapt despite setbacks. For instance, Julian Ryerson has stepped in as a center-back during previous matches, Salih Özcan can also fill that role, and we have various options available. We might even adjust our system to mitigate certain challenges.”

Kovač’s confidence is pivotal. “I believe in all players capable of playing in these positions. By tomorrow, we will identify someone suitable for the role.” This trust may extend to 18-year-old Luca Reggiani, who has begun to earn playing time in the Bundesliga due to the circumstances.

Offensive Developments

While the defensive issues take center stage, Borussia Dortmund’s attacking dynamics have been positively influenced by the emergence of Julian Ryerson.

His progress has mirrored the team’s development this season, which has been steady, followed by crucial contributions. Ryerson has accumulated 11 assists in the Bundesliga thus far, with eight recorded in the current season, including a remarkable four assists in one match against Mainz.

Kovač views Ryerson’s contributions as a sign of consistent improvement: “Julian has steadily advanced at BVB in the past years, and the statistics reflect this. Since arriving from Union Berlin, he has shown continuous growth—not just with us but also in the national team.”

Interestingly, Ryerson’s rise in form coincides with defensive concerns, as shifting him further back may limit one of Dortmund’s key creative players. Nonetheless, Kovač is mindful of Ryerson’s significance.

“Every coach and club appreciates having a player who can deliver precise balls. While I hope to see him score sometime, his continued provision of assists is invaluable to our success.”

Mental Preparation

For Dortmund, the focus is as much on mental readiness as it is on tactical planning. With five crucial matches in a span of two weeks, the team must avoid emotional fluctuations. Kovač emphasized the need for a balanced outlook.

“We aim to carry our current momentum in the Bundesliga into this match. It’s crucial we harness this energy with support from our fans. This is a play-off game, and progressing to the next round requires much more than words; it demands hard work and performance on the pitch.”

Confronted by an Atalanta squad known for their intensity and aggressive play, Dortmund is aware that the match could be strenuous. “I see the odds as even,” Kovač noted. “Our performance tomorrow will be critical in determining a favorable outcome for our trip to Italy.”

Injuries may have tested Dortmund’s resilience, but their recent form offers a foundation of belief. Over two matches, flexibility rather than flawless execution could determine if their Bundesliga momentum continues on the European stage.