Injury Blow for Dortmund as Nmecha Ruled Out for Weeks

Borussia Dortmund's interim manager Mike Tullberg is confident of a positive result against Shakhtar Donetsk, despite the absence of injured midfielder Felix Nmecha.

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha will be sidelined for several weeks due to a knee injury, interim manager Mike Tullberg announced on Tuesday. The injury occurred during Saturday's 2-2 draw with Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga, with Nmecha being substituted out in the 12th minute. This latest setback comes ahead of Dortmund's crucial Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday.

🎙️ Tullberg on squad availability:

“Felix Nmecha will be out for a few weeks. Waldemar Anton and Serhou Guirassy will be available tomorrow.” pic.twitter.com/w64seh5uk4

— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) January 28, 2025

Dortmund's chances of advancing directly to the Champions League last 16 appear slim, as they currently sit 14th in the table with four wins and three losses in seven games. However, they have already secured at least a playoff spot. Nmecha has been a key contributor for Dortmund this season, scoring three goals and registering two assists in 27 appearances.

Tullberg provided an update on Nmecha's injury, stating, “Felix will be out for a few weeks.” He also confirmed that centre-back Waldemar Anton and striker Serhou Guirassy will be available for selection against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday. To mitigate the loss of Nmecha, Dortmund has recalled defensive midfielder Salih Ozcan from his loan spell at VfL Wolfsburg, the club announced on Tuesday.

ℹ️ Salih Özcan returns from Wolfsburg.

Borussia Dortmund have recalled midfielder Salih Özcan from his loan at VfL Wolfsburg to address the absence of Felix Nmecha due to injury. The Turkish international had joined Wolfsburg on a temporary deal last summer. pic.twitter.com/asqAw2Gj2m

— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) January 28, 2025

Borussia Dortmund recently parted ways with manager Nuri Sahin following a 2-1 loss to Bologna, which extended their losing streak to four games across all competitions. Sahin, 36, was the club's second manager in a year, having taken over after Edin Terzic's departure in June. In his place, caretaker manager Mike Tullberg has taken the reins, despite having no prior experience managing in a Champions League game. Tullberg, who coaches Dortmund's U19 team, expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him.

“I'm grateful for the trust and have worked here for six years in various roles. I enjoy every day and try to give my best in every position,” Tullberg said. He emphasized his deep connection to the club, stating, “I am Borussia Dortmund through and through - not just since becoming interim coach but also in my previous roles.” Tullberg also demonstrated his awareness of the temporary nature of his role, saying, “I can assess myself and the situation well. It won't be difficult for me to step aside (when a new coach comes around).”

As Dortmund prepare to face Shakhtar Donetsk, Tullberg acknowledged the Ukrainian side's strengths, particularly in possession. However, he remains confident in his team's abilities, stating, “We will adjust a few small things. If the other things are right, the probability of us winning the game is very high.” Tullberg emphasized the importance of showcasing Dortmund's strengths, saying, “Donetsk is very strong in possession. But it's more about us bringing our strengths onto the pitch.”

The stakes are high in this Champions League match, as the top eight teams from the first phase will qualify directly for the last 16. Teams finishing ninth to 24th will enter the playoffs, scheduled for February 11th to 12th and 18th to 19th. The playoff draw is set to take place on Friday. Shakhtar Donetsk currently sit 27th with seven points, having secured two wins, one draw, and four losses. Despite their position, they still have a chance to make the playoffs.