Borussia Dortmund is bracing for a high-stakes Champions League encounter against Inter Milan on Wednesday, but they’ll likely be without two pivotal players: defender Niklas Süle and midfielder Marcel Sabitzer.
The Black and Yellows, currently navigating a challenging season under new manager Niko Kovac, face this pivotal match in the league phase’s final round, where every point counts toward securing a spot in the knockout stages.
The absences were confirmed after neither player participated in the team’s final training session ahead of the game.
Süle, a towering center-back known for his aerial dominance and defensive solidity, is sidelined due to persistent back problems.
The 29-year-old German international, who joined Dortmund from Bayern Munich in 2022, has been a cornerstone of the backline, contributing to their resilience in both domestic and European competitions.
His injury comes at a particularly inopportune time, as Dortmund’s defense has already shown vulnerabilities in recent outings.
Similarly, Sabitzer is dealing with calf issues that have kept him out of action. The Austrian midfielder, on loan from Manchester United and a key figure in Dortmund’s midfield engine, brings creativity, work rate, and goal-scoring threat.
His absence could disrupt the team’s rhythm, especially in transitions against a formidable Inter side that’s been performing strongly in Serie A and Europe.
Dortmund currently sits in 16th place out of 36 teams in the expanded Champions League format. A finish in the top 24 would guarantee progression to the knockout rounds, avoiding the playoff route.
Kovac, who took over amid high expectations, will need to rely on squad depth, perhaps turning to players like Waldemar Anton or Julian Ryerson to fill the gaps.
This match at the San Siro represents a stern test. Inter, led by stars like Lautaro Martinez and Nicolo Barella, are favorites, but Dortmund’s history of European upsets could inspire a resilient performance.
Fans will hope for a swift recovery for Süle and Sabitzer, as their return could bolster the team’s ambitions in the Bundesliga and beyond. With the pressure mounting, Dortmund must dig deep to keep their continental dreams alive.
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