Nico Schlotterbeck has launched his own fashion collection. The Borussia Dortmund defender's 'Art of Defense' line is available exclusively through the club's official fan shop.

The collection includes a tracksuit, black T-shirts for adults and children, a white T-shirt, a cap, and flip-flops. Prices range from €25 to €100. The 26-year-old, who has been at BVB since the summer of 2022, has realised a personal project alongside his football career. His long-term future at the club is secure after he signed a new contract until 2028 earlier this year.

Return From Serious Injury

Schlotterbeck's return to the pitch after a ligament injury suffered at last summer's World Cup has been successful. He made his comeback in the 3-0 home win against newly promoted SC Paderborn 07 on September 12. He started that match and won 73 per cent of his attempted challenges. "I missed it so much," Schlotterbeck said. "It's definitely a kind of addiction we're chasing. Football is an adrenaline rush." He added: "It was a serious injury, and I'm glad to be back now." The defender had deliberately kept his return quiet. He had been back on the ball for almost four weeks and had been training with the squad for a week before giving the coach the go-ahead to play.

Strong Start to the Season

Edin Terzić's side are second in the Bundesliga table with nine points from three games. The next fixture takes BVB to an away match against 14th-placed VfB Stuttgart on September 19. The team's current form is excellent, with five wins in their last five competitive matches. The defence, where Schlotterbeck plays a central role, has conceded only two league goals so far.

Schlotterbeck, who is also the team's vice-captain, connects his sporting commitment with a fashion statement through his collection. He is not the first Bundesliga professional to take this step; RB Leipzig's David Raum launched his own fashion label in July. For Schlotterbeck, it is another sign of his growing importance at Borussia Dortmund, both on and off the pitch. His next appearance could come in the away match at Stuttgart, where the team aims to continue its run.

Read the full report at bundesliga.com