Despite Nico Schlotterbeck’s contract extension with Borussia Dortmund, discussions surrounding the deal remain fervent. Lothar Matthäus has asserted that he knows who was responsible for the widely debated release clause.
According to the record international player, the contentious contract stipulation arose from an internal assessment at Borussia Dortmund.
«Such a decision isn’t made alone. I know who pushed for the clause, but I won’t say it now,» Matthäus stated on the program ‘Sky90 – die Fußballdebatte’, emphasizing, «It’s someone from Borussia Dortmund.»
Matthäus further elaborated on his claim, suggesting that «four to five people sat together at the table» and agreed on the clause to achieve a satisfactory outcome for both parties. «One then says: ‘Okay, before he leaves without this release clause and doesn’t extend, we’ll give it to him’,» was the gist of the conversation.
Schlotterbeck: Release Clause Sparks Controversy
Schlotterbeck recently extended his contract, which was originally set to expire in 2027, until 2031. However, according to widespread media reports, he secured a significant escape route. This allows him to leave Dortmund as early as after the summer World Cup for a fixed transfer fee, reportedly between 50 and 60 million euros, which select top clubs would need to pay. Bild newspaper recently reported that FC Bayern Munich explicitly does not have access to this option.
According to Matthäus, Schlotterbeck’s primary goal has «always been to take the next step. On the other hand, he is also connected to Borussia Dortmund.» The clause now presents a straightforward path to advance his career at a club like Real Madrid or from the Premier League.
BVB, on the other hand, has at least gained some planning security. «They would still receive a transfer fee in 2026, but not in 2027,» Matthäus summarized. The 65-year-old, however, considers fans’ concerns that Schlotterbeck might no longer be fully focused on Borussia to be unfounded. «That’s not true. His heart will be in Dortmund.»
Fans Upset with Schlotterbeck — BVB Shows Disappointment
During the Bundesliga match against Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, audible whistles from the BVB fan base were directed at Schlotterbeck, a reaction that CEO Carsten Cramer strongly criticized afterward. «As someone responsible, it doesn’t feel good, and therefore I must say that it’s not right for a Borussia Dortmund player, and that applied to Nico, to be accompanied by whistles,» he said, adding, «He is a Borussia Dortmund player who identifies with us. That’s not right.»
The BVB management, however, declined to comment on the contract details. Ole Book, Sebastian Kehl’s successor as Sporting Director, instead stated, «I think it’s very important that Nico has sent a signal that he wants to be here and that he has extended his contract here. As already indicated, we will not comment on any contract details. That will remain the case because we have a very strong relationship of trust with the player. We had good and strong discussions about the content, and I am absolutely sure that Nico wants to stay with us for a long time.»
Nico Schlotterbeck’s Performance Data at BVB
| Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 156 | 10 | 18 | 26 | 3 |