Expertized Borussia Dortmund Advances to Club World Cup Competition
Borussia Dortmund sets off for the Club World Cup in Florida with high hopes and ambitious aspirations. With the addition of star transfer Jude Bellingham to their roster, the Westphalia club is determined to go far in the tournament, aiming to reach the knockout rounds at the very least. The squad departed from Düsseldorf for Miami, with their base set up in Fort Lauderdale during the tournament.
"We want to go as far as possible, as always," stated sporting director Sebastian Kehl before departure.
Regrettably, key players such as captain Emre Can (adductor injury), defensive pillar Nico Schlotterbeck (rehab), and midfielder Salih Özcan (knee injury) will not be joining the team in the USA. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel will travel to Florida after a friendly match with Switzerland in Nashville.
New addition Jude Bellingham's brother, a midfielder who recently joined the team from AFC Sunderland for around 30 million euros, is already part of the Dortmund squad.
In preparation for the time difference on the East Coast of the USA, coach Niko Kovac has devised adjusted training, meal, and sleep plans for his team. Instead of the traditional morning sessions, these have been moved to the afternoon and gradually pushed back by an hour each day. The players have also been advised to delay their bedtimes by an hour each night, starting from midnight and eventually adjusting to going to bed at 3 AM.
"You have to adapt to the conditions there," explained Kovac. "We're doing everything we can with our medical team and staff to help the players adjust."
Upon arrival in Fort Lauderdale, the Dortmund pros will train alongside global superstar Lionel Messi at the Inter Miami training center. The team has meticulously planned their training and travel schedule to give them the best possible chances in the tournament, taking into account the time difference between Europe and the USA.
By focusing on acclimatization, adjusting training sessions, and ensuring their players are well-rested, Dortmund aims to overcome any challenges posed by the time difference on the East Coast and make a strong showing in the Club World Cup.
"With Jude Bellingham's addition, Borussia Dortmund aspires to excel in football, aiming to surpass their goals in the Club World Cup," said Sebastian Kehl.
"Despite injuries to key players, coach Niko Kovac has devised strategies to adapt to the East Coast conditions, ensuring the team is well-rested and prepared for the Club World Cup," Kovac explained.
