In a bold move, Niko Kovac has announced the starting lineup for Borussia Dortmund’s crucial match against St. Pauli in the Bundesliga. The coach surprised fans by including Julian Brandt, who has recently returned to fitness after a muscle injury that kept him sidelined since December 2022. Kovac expressed confidence in Brandt’s abilities, stating, “Julian is a key player for us, and his creativity will be vital in breaking down St. Pauli’s defense.” Meanwhile, new signing Marius Wolf will also feature prominently, aimed at reinforcing Dortmund’s attacking options. However, the team will be without fullback Julian Ryerson, who has been ruled out due to a knee injury suffered during training this week. Kovac acknowledged the challenge posed by St. Pauli, saying, “They are a tough opponent, and we need to be at our best to secure all three points.” Dortmund sits in a precarious position, having faced a stormy patch recently, with calls for a turnaround gaining urgency as they aim to secure their place in the top echelons of the Bundesliga table as they prepare for this weekend’s clash.
Niko Kovac’s Surprising Lineup Decisions Ahead of BVB vs St. Pauli Clash
