Borussia Dortmund is facing an uphill battle as key players Emre Can, Niklas Süle, Julian Brandt, and Marcel Sabitzer prepare for the upcoming season. Described as "Streichkandidaten" by Sport Bild, these players are considered potential departures, yet, intriguingly, they are reportedly showing no signs of looking for new clubs as of March 19, 2025.
The situation is dire. High salaries combined with underwhelming performances are complicating negotiations for these players, making it difficult for Dortmund to offload them. All four athletes have contracts extending into the next few years; Can, Süle, and Brandt are tied to the club until 2026, while Sabitzer’s deal runs even longer until 2027.
This stagnation is palpable within the club. The quoted source mentions, "Die von der ‚Sport Bild‘ als Streichkandidaten bezeichneten Spieler sollen aktuell noch überhaupt 'keinerlei Anstalten [machen], sich einen neuen Klub zu suchen.'" (The players referred to as candidates for removal by Sport Bild currently show no intentions of looking for a new club.). With no movement on the front lines, the club must strategize on how to change this dynamic.
In professional football, salaries can often be a double-edged sword. These players—each earning significant amounts—are evidently seen as burdens while their performances on the pitch remain below expectations. The allure of their current contracts may paradoxically tether them to Dortmund. This seems particularly true for Can, Süle, and Brandt, who, despite solid backgrounds, have not delivered as expected in recent seasons.
The situation significantly affects Borussia Dortmund's flexibility in the upcoming transfer windows. With substantial wages and lackluster performances, potential buyers might hesitate to enter negotiations. This creates a stagnant environment, inhibiting any potential progress for both the club and the players. Sabitzer’s extended contract further complicates matters, as managing high-profile, high-paying players is always a challenge.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the clock is ticking for Dortmund to resolve the fate of these players. Balancing their worth on the field with their financial implications presents a tricky scenario. The ambition to find new clubs will depend heavily not only on the players' desires but also on the team’s ability to reframe their value in the eyes of potential buyers.
Ultimately, Borussia Dortmund finds itself at a crossroads. The enormity of salaries combined with the less-than-stellar form of critical squad members creates a challenging backdrop for a team aiming for success. With critical matches ahead, managing talent and financial resources effectively will be essential for the club's future.
As tensions rise with approaching deadlines in the football calendar, the question remains: will Dortmund's board manage to convince these stars to seek greener pastures or will they remain stuck in this unnerving limbo? With all eyes on the Bundesliga, the upcoming months will be pivotal for both the players and the club alike.
