Michael Zorc: Emre Can showing mild COVID-19 symptoms but doing fine

Ahead of Borussia Dortmund’s game against Arminia Bielefeld, Michael Zorc offered an update on the health of Emre Can, who is currently in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19.

Can has missed Borussia Dortmund’s last two games after returning a positive test for COVID-19. Speaking during the press conference before Borussia Dortmund away game against Arminia Bielefeld, Michael Zorc said that the German international is showing mild symptoms, but “nothing too serious”.

"“He (Emre Can) is doing just fine. He currently has mild symptoms, but nothing serious,” Zorc said."

The midfielder will miss Saturday’s game against Arminia Bielefeld, as well as next Wednesday’s Champions League group stage tie against Club Brugge. But depending on how things go, he could be back in the squad for next weekend’s crunch clash at home to Bayern Munich.

Zorc also backed club captain Marco Reus, who has recently been subject to criticism from former Bayern Munich midfielder Dietmar Hamann.

"“He is one of our most important players and we are happy that he is back, he will help us. We don’t understand the discussion.”"

Borussia Dortmund head coach Lucien Favre also confirmed that he will rotate his squad for the game against Arminia Bielefeld. He also added that the Black and Yellows will probably be without Nico Schulz on Saturday, but did not reveal the reason for his absence. The full-back has been limited to just two appearances off the bench so far this season, and has endured a difficult time due to injuries.

"“We will rotate. This is clear, logical and necessary. We have to prepare for many possibilities. All the players are on board, no other player was injured. But Nico Schulz has something and will probably not be there.”"

Sporting director Michael Zorc also spoke about the upcoming international break, and said that while the risk of infection during travel is very low, the federations, clubs and players must work together to ensure their journeys are optimally organised. “If we didn’t release the players for the internationals, they could be suspended,” Zorc said. “That’s not in everyone’s best interest either. The players are mostly in a bubble during their travels, so at least the risk of infection is limited.”