Kovac on Schlotterbeck: “We’ll be more cautious”

Nico Schlotterbeck made his comeback after a long injury layoff in the match against SC Paderborn 07. Following the game, the coach, Nico Kovac, offered warm words for his captain, as reported by kicker.

A cautious return

As the same source notes, Kovac signalled that the team will need to take things step by step now that Schlotterbeck is back—basically, being more careful with workload and timing after the prolonged spell on the sidelines.

The key point here is that the comeback came in a specific competitive setting: Schlotterbeck returned versus Paderborn, and the staff’s message is that the next phase should be about maintaining momentum without risking a setback.

The immediate question becomes less about whether he can play again, and more about how he handles continuity: minutes, physical feelings and whether he can sustain his level over several games. With Kovac’s comments, Dortmund is clear that the priority right now is steady progress, not rushing.