by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, Jan. 15 (Xinhua) -- Things are slipping out of hand for 2024 UEFA Champions League finalist Borussia Dortmund.

The struggling team suffered a humiliating 4-2 defeat in its latest match against Bundesliga newcomer Kiel, putting coach Nuri Sahin's future in doubt.

This Friday evening's clash with Eintracht Frankfurt, one of the league's in-form teams, could be a turning point, as media reports suggest.

A sense of debilitating weariness seems to have taken hold within the club. Newly appointed CEO and 1997 UEFA Champions League final hero Lars Ricken described the performance as "unworthy, embarrassing, and shameful."

The 36-year-old Sahin has vowed to take "consequences" in response to recent struggles, but uncertainty remains the defining feature of Dortmund's current state. While club leaders are publicly backing their coach with encouraging statements, several key players risk losing their spots in the starting lineup against Frankfurt.

Following an early exit from the German Cup and with the 2025-26 Champions League qualification in jeopardy, Dortmund's recent setbacks have sparked financial concerns. The expensive roster, initially seen as an asset, is now becoming a burden.

Sporting director Sebastian Kehl, despite recently extending his contract until 2027, has faced criticism for assembling what many view as an unbalanced squad. The team's failure to contend for the 2024-25 Bundesliga title, collecting only 25 points in 17 matches, appears to be the least of its problems. A midseason squad overhaul seems inevitable.

Backing Sahin and Kehl would mean triggering an aggressive pursuit of reinforcements. Prominent names, including Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, have surfaced in transfer rumors.

Fans, however, are growing restless. Following the defeat to Kiel, Dortmund players were seen in heated discussions with supporters on the pitch. With the club now sitting in ninth place in the league, immediate action is required. While Kehl and Ricken have confirmed that Sahin will remain on the sidelines for now, the Frankfurt match could be his final chance to turn things around.

Dortmund's away form, with just five points in eight matches, doesn't inspire confidence. A draw may be the minimum result needed to prevent the club from unraveling further.

The media describe Sahin's predicament as a choice between the devil and the deep blue sea. The young coach retains support from fans and players, but results must improve quickly to stem the tide. Speculation about potential replacements is already swirling, with former Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag reportedly being considered as a candidate. Enditem

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