Borussia Dortmund have been urged to do everything in their power to keep Nico Schlotterbeck, with Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthäus hailing the 25-year-old centre-back as Dortmund’s very own Thomas Müller. In Matthäus’ view, Schlotterbeck has already become a talismanic figure whose mentality, leadership, and resilience could prove vital if BVB are to end Bayern’s long dominance of the Bundesliga.
Schlotterbeck, who recently returned from a meniscus injury suffered in April, has wasted no time in reminding fans and pundits of his quality. Since reclaiming his place in the starting XI, Dortmund have kept back-to-back clean sheets, underlining the stability and composure he brings to Niko Kovac’s backline. For Matthäus, the comparison with Müller lies not in position but in mentality: “Schlotterbeck is to BVB what Thomas Müller has been to Bayern. He’s a role model, a fighter, and a personality this Dortmund team needs for the future. His mentality sets him apart.”
The message is clear—retaining Schlotterbeck is about more than just defending; it’s about building a winning culture. Dortmund have started the season unbeaten in 13 matches across competitions, and with Bayern just two points ahead at the top of the Bundesliga, the margins are finer than ever. Matthäus himself acknowledged that Bayern’s brilliance often dictates the title race, but he insisted Dortmund’s best hope is to hold onto leaders like Schlotterbeck.
Under Kovac, Dortmund are finding a balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity, with Schlotterbeck at the heart of that effort. His ability to win crucial duels, organize the backline, and set the tone in pressure situations has earned him comparisons not only to Müller, but to iconic Dortmund leaders of the past.
His resurgence has also caught the eye of Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, who confirmed Schlotterbeck will feature in upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Luxembourg and Northern Ireland. With veterans like Antonio Rüdiger and Jonathan Tah showing signs of decline, Schlotterbeck is being tipped as a long-term anchor for the national side as well.
Dortmund’s immediate challenge is their Champions League clash against Athletic Club, following a rollercoaster 4-4 draw with Juventus. With a brutal group that also features Manchester City, Tottenham, Inter Milan, and Villarreal, Schlotterbeck’s leadership could prove decisive.
For Dortmund to finally topple Bayern and thrive in Europe, Matthäus’ advice rings loud: securing Schlotterbeck’s future might be just as important as any star signing.
