Schlotterbeck and Emre Can are included in Dortmund's 23-man squad to face Atalanta in Bergamo, boosting defensive options; punters might back Dortmund to avoid defeat or target a clean sheet/unders market—likely shorter odds for a BVB win or draw and for under 3.5 goals.
Dortmund name Schlotterbeck and Emre Can in 23-man squad for Bergamo
Borussia Dortmund have confirmed that defenders Nico Schlotterbeck and Emre Can are part of the 23-man travelling squad for tomorrow's Champions League play-off second leg at Atalanta in Bergamo. The club posted the full list of players ahead of the trip north to Italy.
Training session signals fitness but starts not guaranteed
Both players were pictured taking part in the final training session at Dortmund's Brackel base, a positive indicator of match fitness. Their inclusion in the squad does not automatically mean they will start — coach Niko Kovač will assess options and could use them as tactical reinforcements if required.
Tactical impact and squad depth for a crucial run
The return of Schlotterbeck and Can strengthens Dortmund's defensive options against Atalanta's attacking threats and gives Kovač more flexibility in selection. Their availability also arrives at a key time with a high-profile Bundesliga meeting at Bayern Munich next Saturday at 18:30 CET; a Dortmund victory would cut Bayern's lead to five points.
What this means for the tie
With both defenders back in contention, Dortmund can consider a more conservative defensive setup or rotate personnel while retaining solidity.
Facts: Borussia's 95% success rate
That could influence match tempo and goal expectancy, factors bettors and analysts will weigh ahead of kick-off.
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