Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has clarified his recent controversial remarks regarding his ongoing contract extension negotiations. The 26-year-old faced significant criticism from the German media after suggesting that the departure of former sporting director Sebastian Kehl, his preferred negotiation partner, had influenced his decision to commit his future to BVB.
The State of Nico Schlotterbeck’s Extension Talks
Following a disappointing performance for the German national team, Schlotterbeck addressed the issue directly. He emphasized that his earlier statement was merely an honest attempt to deny premature reports of a contract agreement that surfaced last weekend, not an act of malice towards the club or the media.
Lars Ricken Attempts to Smooth Things Over
BVB managing director Lars Ricken also weighed in, aiming to defuse the situation. “He said things had changed a bit, but I don’t think anything has changed at all,” Ricken told a German media outlet prior to kickoff against VfB Stuttgart. Ricken confirmed a constructive meeting with Schlotterbeck upon his return from international duty, noting that their relationship of trust remains “100 percent intact” and highlighting Schlotterbeck’s passion for the club. Ricken expressed optimism for future talks, acknowledging both the player’s expectations and the club’s conditions.
Schlotterbeck Seeks to Clarify
Schlotterbeck reiterated his stance after Dortmund’s match against VfB Stuttgart. He confirmed positive discussions with Ricken and new sporting director Nils Ole Book. “Denying reports of the contract extension wasn’t meant as something malicious toward you [the media] or BVB. I was just surprised [by the reports] and wanted to be honest,” he stated. He added that he understood the potential for backlash but felt it necessary to correct inaccurate media reports to avoid appearing “foolish.”
He concluded, “I can’t please everyone.”
