"Good to have Schlotti back" - Fans react as Dortmund announce lineup for Paderborn clash
Borussia Dortmund have announced their starting XI to face Paderborn in today's Bundesliga clash and fans cannot keep calm after seeing Nico Schlotterbeck making his first appearance of the season.
The German had been nursing an ankle injury he sustained on 22 June at the World Cup but has now recovered with head coach Niko Kovac even restoring him straight back into the XI, whereas Ramy Bensebaini, also returning from an injury, is among the substitutes.
Arsenal loanee Ethan Nwaneri is also making his first start for the club whereas Fabio Silva and Serhou Guirassy are starting together for the first time this season in a completely new-look Dortmund side.
Fans were excited to see the lineup for matchday three of the league season and took to X to share their thoughts:
One X user held the BVB defense in high regard:
The defense is rock solid, top 5 in Europe.
Veerman Starting XI W
This fan just promptly wrote:
WOW
This user wasn't pleased to see Schlotterbeck being thrown at the deep end:
Oh God, Schlotti—too early. A wayward pass, and Guirassy—the chance-waster—oh boy.
One fan was happy to see Fabio Silva get his first Bundesliga start of the season:
Great starting XI—it's good to have Schlotti back. Finally, Fabio is getting the chance to start; I’m really happy for him. But it doesn't matter who plays or who doesn't—we have to win this match. 🖤🖤💛💛
This X user expressed displeasure with the formation:
I still really don't like the fact that we're lining up with a back five against the newly promoted side... you could easily play attacking wing-backs there. Otherwise, though—top-notch!
This fan couldn't believe that Guirassy and Silva are starting together:
Kovac is actually playing Guirassy and Silva? Is it Christmas today?
One X user wished Schlotterbeck well upon his return:
Hopefully Schlotterbeck doesn't get injured again right away – otherwise, a great lineup.
This X user questioned one tactical switch by Kovac today:
Jobe instead of Felix is such a bad move.
This fan had some bold words of encouragement for Dortmund:
Just go out and thrash Paderborn, and do something really good for the goal difference.
Another fan hoped that Silva delivers on the faith that Kovac has showed in him by starting him tonight:
Silva starting is long overdue. I hope he manages to prove himself worthy of further starts.
This user felt Kovac's selections today were 'perfect':
Since when does Niko set up the team perfectly? I'm excited! 💪
Today's best reads
Dortmund vs Paderborn: 3 things to watch
Book offers insights into Schlotterbeck and Bensebaini's match preparedness
Niko Kovac confirms return of two key defenders for Paderborn clash
"A tough challenge" - Ole Book takes nothing for granted ahead of Paderborn clash
Hoffenheim 2-3 Borussia Dortmund: BVB's other memorable Bundesliga comebacks
