Borussia Dortmund is currently navigating a critical juncture in its season as the club plans for the future while trying to address current challenges on the pitch. Among the players whose future is being reconsidered is Carney Chukwuemeka, a 21-year-old midfielder who joined on loan from Chelsea during the January window. Despite high hopes, his time at Dortmund so far has been marred by injury and insufficient impact in the first team, leading to speculation that the club may opt against making his move permanent.
Chukwuemeka was brought to the Ruhr region to bolster the club’s midfield as it aimed for Champions League qualification after a disappointing first half of the Bundesliga season. However, his stay has not gone as planned. According to reports from Ruhr Nachrichten, Borussia Dortmund is unlikely to exercise the €35 million purchase option included in his loan agreement. The decision on whether to extend his loan will hinge on the club's standings in the league come summer 2025.
After several weeks with the club, Chukwuemeka’s performance has not yet justified a permanent transfer. With just 62 minutes played over five domestic appearances, he has struggled to find his footing and make a significant impact. Dortmund's coach, Niko Kovač, stated in a press conference ahead of an important match against RB Leipzig, “We have to build him up gradually. That means: 10, 15, 20 minutes, maybe even half an hour. That’s what’s possible at the moment. But I would hope that he can also play longer as the season progresses.” His chances of obtaining more playing time have increased due to injuries to other players on the squad, most notably Marcel Sabitzer.
While Chukwuemeka’s situation unfolds, another player, Julian Hettwer, has made headlines by departing the club altogether. The 21-year-old striker, who showcased his potential in Borussia Dortmund’s U23 team with 17 goal contributions in just 18 third-division league games, is reportedly set to join Fortuna Düsseldorf on a free transfer. Hettwer's successful stint at BVB began with his arrival from MSV Duisburg in the summer of 2023, but a persistent back injury has kept him from making an appearance with the first team.
Hettwer’s contract with Dortmund included a clause for automatic extension contingent on a first team appearance. However, due to his injury preventing him from participating, he will leave without a contract extension, paving the way for his transition to the second-tier side, Fortuna Düsseldorf. The loss is significant for Dortmund, especially for the U23 team, which relied heavily on his goal-scoring abilities. Competing clubs like 1. FC Köln and FC Augsburg had shown interest, but Düsseldorf ultimately secured Hettwer’s services. The signing is seen as a great catch for the second division team, promising Hettwer a chance to thrive with the opportunity to play regularly.
As both Chukwuemeka and Hettwer's futures illustrate differing fortunes, Borussia Dortmund faces the continuing challenge of integrating new talent while managing injuries and maintaining competitive performance in the Bundesliga. Coach Niko Kovač will need to strategize effectively to ensure that the team's goals, including securing a Champions League spot and nurturing emerging talent within the club, are realized as the season draws to a close.
With the trading period approaching and decisions looming over current contracts and player pursuits, Borussia Dortmund’s management remains under pressure. Their ability to navigate this turbulent phase will be critical to both short-term results and long-term ambitions.
