According to Sport1, Borussia Dortmund coach Kovač criticized the excessively long international break, believing that national team players playing up to four matches would disrupt the team's rhythm. Some Borussia Dortmund players are feeling unwell, and others have not yet returned to the team.

Ahead of Wednesday's match against Werder Bremen, Kovač stated, "From a club's perspective, this is completely unacceptable. It's not just about sick and injured players; we also won't have any match rhythm for two and a half weeks."

Kovač believes that playing four matches is "definitely too much." He said, "Three sets of two matches each would be the best arrangement. Players would be away for 10 days, but then they could return." Due to the UEFA Nations League schedule, there are no longer any international friendlies, "so now you can't even try anything."

Kovač mentioned that the players have been traveling extensively, and Karetsas and Daniel Svensson have colds. Mathis Albert will not return from the United States until Thursday, while Bensebaini will have to rush back to Borussia Dortmund from Africa after playing a match on Tuesday.

This also impacts Kovač's squad selection. Schlotterbeck is still training individually after an ankle injury, and his availability for Friday's match is uncertain. Ryerson has a rib injury, and Chukwuemeka has muscle problems.

Kovač, who previously coached the Croatian national team, also understands the national team's perspective. He said, "As a national team coach, you have a responsibility and must achieve results, but I prefer the old competition format." Kovač also mentioned that Karetsas played more matches for Greece than Borussia Dortmund had anticipated. The upcoming nine consecutive matches will be a major test for Borussia Dortmund.

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