Borussia Dortmund is advancing its squad planning for the upcoming season, focusing primarily on player departures. As the season comes to a close, the club announced that Salih Özcan and Niklas Süle will leave at the end of the term. Both players were signed in 2022, and their exits will occur without transfer fees.
Departures from Dortmund
CEO Lars Ricken confirmed the separation from Özcan and Süle, stating that both parties reached a mutual agreement to part ways. “We had open and respectful discussions with both players this week,” Ricken mentioned in an interview. This decision comes after Borussia Dortmund’s disappointing performances in recent matches, including a 1-4 Champions League exit and a 2-3 defeat against Bayern Munich.
Player Profiles
- Salih Özcan: The central midfielder joined Dortmund from Köln with a buyout clause of five million euros. He struggled for playing time, appearing for only a total of 31 minutes this season.
- Niklas Süle: Originally transferred from Bayern Munich without a fee, Süle’s contributions dwindled over the years. After 29 league appearances in his first season, he managed just 23 and then 15 in the following seasons, with only nine appearances this year.
The diminishing role of both players indicates a significant shift in Dortmund’s squad dynamics. Their respective departures could signify the beginning of a broader overhaul for the club.
Looking Ahead
As Dortmund seeks to secure their second-place position in the league, the focus remains on what lies ahead. The club has nine remaining matches and holds a six-point lead over third-placed Hoffenheim. The upcoming summer will bring changes rather than stagnation.
While the next destination for both Özcan and Süle remains uncertain, their exits mark a pivotal moment for Borussia Dortmund as it prepares for an impactful summer ahead.
