Marco Reus gives up Borussia Dortmund captaincy

Marco Reus has made the decision to give up the Borussia Dortmund armband, which means that the club will have a new captain next season.

Marco Reus has announced that he has made the decision to step down as Borussia Dortmund captain. The 34 year old has decided to give up the role ahead of what could well be his final season with the club. Reus said that he made the decision over the summer break, and added that he is confident the club will find a worthy successor.

"“I took time to think about it while on vacation and I have decided to give up the captain’s armband. I had the pleasure of wearing this captain’s armband proudly for five years. It was a great honor for me.”"

Reus was appointed Borussia Dortmund captain in 2018 following Marcel Schmelzer’s decision to step down from the role. The attacking midfielder has made a total of 387 appearances for the Black and Yellows, and is also the club’s second-highest goalscorer of all time.

Marco Reus’ decision does not come as a big surprise after he lost his spot in the starting XI towards the end of last season. Giving up the captaincy will allow him to play without that extra pressure next season.

Borussia Dortmund will now look for a new captain, with goalkeeper Gregor Kobel thought to be the favourite to take over the armband. The Switzerland international has established himself as a real leader in the team since joining BVB from VfB Stuttgart in 2021.

Emre Can, Niklas Süle, Sebastien Haller, Julian Brandt, and Nico Schlotterbeck are among the other possible candidates Sebastian Kehl and Edin Terzic may look to consider.

Mats Hummels was the Borussia Dortmund vice-captain last season, but the likelihood is that those in charge will look to appoint a new captain with a view towards the future.