Dortmund's Malen Ruled Out for Atletico Clash Due to Injury

Borussia Dortmund’s push for Champions League glory has been dealt a blow with the news that Dutch forward Donyell Malen will miss their quarterfinal first-leg clash against Atletico Madrid due to injury. The 23-year-old sustained a thigh injury while on international duty with the Netherlands last month and has failed to recover in time for the crucial European tie.

Malen’s absence will be a significant setback for Dortmund, who have relied heavily on his goalscoring prowess this season. The former PSV Eindhoven star has found the back of the net on 13 occasions across all competitions, establishing himself as a key figure in Edin Terzic’s attack-minded side.

Dortmund’s Sporting Director, Sebastian Kehl, confirmed the news in a pre-match press conference, revealing that Malen had also been struck down by illness in recent days. “Unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to make it,” Kehl said. “He wasn’t available to us at the weekend and has also picked up a bug. It’s a shame, but everyone else is on board.”

The injury initially occurred during the Netherlands’ international friendly against Germany in late March, with Malen forced to withdraw from the squad. He subsequently missed Dortmund’s crucial 2-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, as well as their 1-0 defeat to Stuttgart at the weekend.

Terzic will now have to reshuffle his attacking options for the daunting trip to the Wanda Metropolitano, where Atletico’s famously resolute defense will pose a stern test. Marco Reus, Jude Bellingham, and the in-form Youssoufa Moukoko are likely to shoulder the goalscoring burden in Malen’s absence.

Despite the setback, Dortmund will be buoyed by their impressive run of form in the Champions League, which has seen them dispatch Sevilla and Chelsea en route to the quarterfinals. A positive result in Madrid could set up a tantalizing second leg at Signal Iduna Park, where the Black and Yellows’ vociferous support could prove decisive.

For Malen, the focus will now shift to regaining full fitness as quickly as possible, with Dortmund’s Bundesliga title challenge and potential Champions League progression hinging on his return to the fold. The precocious talent has already demonstrated his vast potential this season, and his presence could prove invaluable as the campaign reaches its climax.