Nico Schlotterbeck Out for Season with Meniscus Tear

Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the rest of the season due to a meniscus tear, a significant blow to the team's European hopes.

Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the remainder of the season due to a meniscus tear in his left knee, the Bundesliga club announced on Monday. The 25-year-old's injury is a significant blow to the team as they push for European qualification for the next season.

Dortmund currently sit eighth in the Bundesliga standings with six matches remaining, trailing fourth-placed Mainz 05 by five points. The loss of Schlotterbeck will be felt heavily, as the team looks to secure a top-four finish and a spot in European competition for the upcoming season.

Dortmund are set to face a significant challenge in their upcoming Champions League quarter-final against LaLiga leaders Barcelona, with the first leg scheduled for Wednesday. The team is still reeling from the news that centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the rest of the season due to a meniscus tear in his left knee.

ℹ️ Tough news to close out the season: Nico Schlotterbeck has sustained a meniscus tear in his left knee and will be sidelined for the remainder of the campaign. pic.twitter.com/ki3zfAZLwb

— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) April 7, 2025

“Nico's loss hits us very hard,” Dortmund Sporting Director Sebastian Kehl said. “He is a very important part of our team and has impressed with consistently good performances this season.” Kehl expressed hope for Schlotterbeck's speedy recovery, adding, “We hope that he will be fit again quickly and will receive maximum support from us on his way back.” Dortmund's hopes of European qualification for next season have taken a hit with Schlotterbeck's injury, as they currently sit eighth in the Bundesliga standings.