Defensive Crisis Hits Dortmund: Kovac Scrambles for Solutions Ahead of Crucial Atalanta Clash

Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac faces a significant defensive challenge ahead of their Champions League play-off first leg against Atalanta, with key defenders Nico Schlotterbeck and Niklas Sule ruled out due to injury. Compounding their woes, Emre Can and Filippo Mane are also sidelined, forcing Kovac to explore creative solutions like deploying Julian Ryerson or Salih Ozcan in central defense. Despite a strong domestic run, Dortmund’s recent Champions League form has been shaky, setting the stage for an intense encounter against the formidable Italian side.