Borussia Dortmund faces a tense restart as the Bundesliga resumes this Friday, Jan. 9, with uncertainty surrounding key players and ongoing internal disciplinary matters. The team’s winter training in Marbella, Spain, was conducted behind closed doors as coach Niko Kovac worked to rebuild cohesion among his squad.

Amid contract negotiations and potential transfers, observers have noted a strict, decisive tone during practice sessions. Media reports have highlighted tensions surrounding Nico Schlotterbeck, Karim Adeyemi, Emre Can, and Julian Brandt.

Contract disputes and disciplinary concerns

German international Schlotterbeck remains hesitant to extend his contract beyond 2030, while winger Adeyemi has reportedly been marked as a selling candidate due to disciplinary problems. Premier League interest has been noted, with clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United reportedly monitoring the situation.

Sports director Sebastian Kehl is focused on finalizing team restructuring. Schlotterbeck seeks a promising outlook and has been linked to Bayern Munich, while midfielders Brandt and Can are expected to finalize new contracts soon. These developments come as Borussia Dortmund recalibrates season goals after being eliminated from the German Cup.

The club has set finishing second behind Bayern Munich as the primary target, a goal supported by their current league standing of 32 points, ahead of rivals Leipzig and Leverkusen at 29 points. UEFA Champions League performance, with 11 points secured, also provides a positive context for Kovac’s pragmatic approach.

Tensions rise ahead of league restart

Bad weather disrupted training in Spain, further heightening tensions. Reports indicate that Adeyemi was fined 90,000 euros, an action confirmed by Kehl, who was seen preventing the player from leaving after a substitution against Gladbach. Kovac acknowledged that unrest continues to affect the club and its supporters despite a series of positive results.

Locker room discussions have been described as candid and constructive by players such as Waldemar Anton, who praised open communication as a means to resolve issues. Schlotterbeck cited a lack of spirit and sloppy attitudes affecting team performance, while both players emphasized support for Kovac and the importance of a focused restart against Frankfurt. [Oliver Trust | Xinhua]