Borussia Dortmund is reportedly adopting a wait-and-see approach regarding the contract extensions of four key players, signaling a potential shift in the club’s squad management strategy. According to a report in the German newspaper "Bild," the club has decided against offering premature contract renewals to Julian Brandt, Emre Can, Pascal Groß, and Niklas Süle, whose current deals are set to expire in 2026.
This decision marks a significant departure from the common practice of securing the futures of valuable players well in advance. Instead, Borussia Dortmund intends to evaluate the performances of these four players throughout the upcoming season before determining whether to present them with new contract offers. This approach places a greater emphasis on individual performance and contribution to the team’s success.
The report indicates that Julian Brandt’s situation is particularly nuanced. While the club is willing to assess his performance in the coming season, they are also open to considering offers for the playmaker during the current summer transfer window. This suggests that Dortmund is not entirely convinced of Brandt’s long-term suitability for the team, especially considering his inconsistent form during the recently concluded season. Despite possessing undeniable talent, the 29-year-old has struggled to consistently deliver performances that match his potential, leading to doubts about his future at the club. The willingness to entertain offers for Brandt highlights the club’s willingness to reshape the squad and prioritize players who consistently contribute to the team’s objectives.
Emre Can, the team’s captain, and Niklas Süle have also faced criticism for their performances. Both players have been inconsistent at times, leading to questions about their roles in the team’s future. Can, 31, brings leadership and experience to the midfield, but his performances have fluctuated, and he has been prone to errors that have cost the team valuable points. Süle, 29, a central defender, has also faced scrutiny for his lack of consistency and occasional lapses in concentration. While he possesses the physical attributes to be a dominant defender, he has not always lived up to expectations, leading to doubts about his long-term value to the team. The club’s decision to delay contract talks suggests that they want to see improvement in both players’ performances before committing to their long-term futures.
Pascal Groß’s case is slightly different due to his age. The midfielder will be 35 years old when his current contract expires. While he brings valuable experience and composure to the team, the club may be hesitant to offer him a new contract at that age. The physical demands of modern football are considerable, and the club may prefer to invest in younger players who can contribute to the team for a longer period. However, if Groß performs exceptionally well in the upcoming season, the club may be willing to make an exception and offer him a short-term extension.
The decision to postpone contract negotiations with these four players reflects a broader trend in football, where clubs are becoming increasingly cautious about committing to long-term contracts with players who may not consistently perform at the required level. The financial implications of these contracts can be significant, and clubs are keen to avoid tying up large sums of money in players who are not contributing to the team’s success.
This approach also allows Borussia Dortmund to maintain flexibility in the transfer market. By delaying contract decisions, the club can assess its options and potentially bring in new players who better fit their tactical approach and long-term vision. This strategy enables the club to be more proactive in shaping the squad and ensures that they are not restricted by existing contracts when pursuing potential targets.
The upcoming season will be crucial for Brandt, Can, Süle, and Groß as they strive to prove their worth and secure their futures at Borussia Dortmund. Their performances will be closely scrutinized by the club’s management and coaching staff, who will ultimately determine whether they deserve new contract offers. The pressure will be on them to consistently deliver high-quality performances and demonstrate their commitment to the team’s success.
This situation also creates an opportunity for other players in the squad to step up and challenge for starting positions. The uncertainty surrounding the futures of Brandt, Can, Süle, and Groß could motivate other players to raise their game and prove that they deserve a place in the team. This internal competition can be beneficial for the team as a whole, as it encourages players to push themselves to their limits and strive for continuous improvement.
Ultimately, Borussia Dortmund’s decision to delay contract negotiations is a strategic move designed to maximize the club’s chances of success. By prioritizing performance and maintaining flexibility in the transfer market, the club aims to build a squad that is capable of competing at the highest level. The upcoming season will be a crucial period for Brandt, Can, Süle, and Groß as they battle to secure their futures at the club and demonstrate their value to the team. Their performances will determine whether they remain part of Borussia Dortmund’s long-term plans or whether they will be seeking new opportunities elsewhere. The club is sending a clear message that performance matters, and that only those who consistently contribute to the team’s success will be rewarded with new contracts. The fans will be watching closely to see how these players respond to this challenge and whether they can rise to the occasion.
